MCQ Detailed View

The instrument specifically designed to measure wind speed is called an anemometer. It is one of the key meteorological instruments used in weather stations, aviation, environmental science, and oceanography to record the movement of air over a given time period.

How an Anemometer Works:

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   Structure:

   
   
   
   
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     The most common type, called a cup anemometer, consists of three or four hemispherical cups mounted on horizontal arms that spin around a vertical axis.

     
     
   
   
   
   


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   Functioning:

   
   
   
   
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     As the wind blows, it pushes the cups, causing them to rotate. The rotation speed is directly proportional to the wind speed.

     
     
   
   
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     A sensor or counting mechanism translates the number of rotations per second into a wind speed reading.

     
     
   
   
   
   


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   Modern Digital Anemometers:

   
   
   
   
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     Use ultrasonic sensors or laser technology to measure air velocity with greater precision.

     
     
   
   
   
   

Importance of Measuring Wind Speed:

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  Weather Forecasting: Helps predict storms, cyclones, and changes in weather patterns.

  
  


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  Aviation and Marine Navigation: Ensures safe flight and sailing conditions.

  
  


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  Renewable Energy: Critical for assessing wind energy potential for turbines.

  
  


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  Environmental Monitoring: Used in pollution control, wildfire tracking, and research.

  
  

Why Other Instruments Are Incorrect:

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  Barometer: Measures atmospheric pressure, not wind speed.

  
  


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  Hydrometer: Measures the specific gravity or density of liquids.

  
  


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  Hygrometer: Measures humidity (moisture content) in the air.

  
  

Thus, the correct answer is Option A: Anemometer, as it is the standard instrument used worldwide to measure wind speed accurately.