What type of pressure does a venturimeter measure?

A venturimeter measures dynamic pressure, which is the pressure of a fluid in motion. This device operates on the principle of the Bernoulli equation, which relates the pressure, velocity, and elevation of fluid flow. As fluid travels through the venturi tube, it encounters a constriction that causes the velocity of the fluid to increase and the pressure to decrease. The differences in pressure before and after the constriction are what the venturimeter quantifies, providing a means to calculate the flow rate of the fluid.

Understanding the distinction between pressure types is crucial in this context. Static pressure refers to the pressure exerted by a fluid at rest, while dynamic pressure relates specifically to the movement of the fluid. Atmospheric pressure is the pressure exerted by the weight of the atmosphere and is not influenced by the fluid’s velocity in a system like a venturimeter. Vacuum pressure refers to pressure values below atmospheric pressure and is not applicable in this case. Thus, dynamic pressure is the appropriate measurement for flow monitoring via a venturimeter.