Imagine that a small group of students is setting up a rain gauge. Here are some options for the site. 1. The school vegetable garden. 2. The terrace of the school building. 3. Open ground with elevated platform. 4. Compound wall of school. 5. Verandah of the school laboratory. Discuss in your group and finalise the site. Write down the reasons for your decision.
The best site is the 'Open ground with elevated platform' (Option 3).
A rain gauge must be placed in an open area where rain can fall directly into it without obstruction from trees, buildings, or walls. An elevated platform ensures that the gauge is stable and prevents splashes from the ground from entering.
The vegetable garden (Option 1) may have plants that grow tall and obstruct rain.
The terrace (Option 2) might have wind turbulence or building obstructions.
The compound wall (Option 4) and verandah (Option 5) are likely to have obstructions or be covered, preventing accurate measurement.
Explanation
The chapter specifies that a rain gauge should be placed in an open area, away from objects that might obstruct rain, and on a flat surface to prevent tilting. An open ground with an elevated platform best meets these criteria.
Solution Steps
The best site for a rain gauge is the open ground with elevated platform (Option 3)
A rain gauge requires an open area without obstructions from trees, buildings, or walls
An elevated platform provides stability and prevents ground splashes from entering the gauge
The vegetable garden (Option 1) is unsuitable because plants may grow tall and obstruct rain
The terrace (Option 2) may have wind turbulence or building obstructions
The compound wall (Option 4) and verandah (Option 5) are likely to have obstructions or be covered