Hydrometer vs. Areometer — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Urooj Arif — Updated on May 18, 2024
A hydrometer measures the specific gravity (density) of liquids, while an areometer is a specific type of hydrometer used for measuring the density of liquids.
Difference Between Hydrometer and Areometer
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A hydrometer is an instrument used to measure the specific gravity or relative density of liquids compared to water. It typically consists of a weighted glass tube that floats in the liquid being measured; the level at which the hydrometer floats indicates the specific gravity. An areometer, on the other hand, is essentially a hydrometer designed specifically for measuring the density of liquids. While all areometers are hydrometers, not all hydrometers are referred to as areometers.
Hydrometers come in various types tailored for specific uses, such as alcohol hydrometers for measuring alcohol content and lactometers for measuring the density of milk. Areometers are typically more specialized instruments within the broader category of hydrometers.
The key distinction lies in the terminology and slight variations in usage context, with hydrometer being the more general term and areometer often used in more specialized or scientific scenarios.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Measures specific gravity of liquids
Type of hydrometer for measuring density
Usage Context
General term, used in various industries
Scientific and technical contexts
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Specificity
Broader category
More specialized within hydrometers
Examples of Types
Alcohol hydrometers, lactometers
Typically standard hydrometer type
Function
Measures relative density
Measures relative density
Compare with Definitions
Hydrometer
A device that indicates how dense a liquid is compared to water.
A hydrometer floated higher in saltwater than in freshwater.
Areometer
A hydrometer used for determining liquid density.
The scientist used an areometer to measure the density of the chemical solution.
Hydrometer
An instrument for measuring the specific gravity of liquids.
The brewer used a hydrometer to check the fermentation process.
Areometer
An instrument designed for scientific and technical density assessments.
The areometer was essential for quality control in the manufacturing process.
Hydrometer
An instrument for measuring battery electrolyte density.
The technician used a hydrometer to check the car battery's condition.
Areometer
A specialized instrument within the hydrometer category.
Areometers are often used in laboratory settings.
Hydrometer
A tool used in winemaking to determine sugar content.
Using a hydrometer, the winemaker assessed the potential alcohol content.
Areometer
A hydrometer with a specific focus on density measurement.
In scientific studies, areometers help determine the purity of liquids.
Hydrometer
A floating glass tube with a scale for density measurement.
The hydrometer reading indicated the specific gravity of the solution.
Areometer
A device for precise measurement of liquid density.
An areometer provided accurate readings for the experiment.
Hydrometer
A hydrometer is an instrument used for measuring the relative density of liquids based on the concept of buoyancy. They are typically calibrated and graduated with one or more scales such as specific gravity.
Areometer
Any device used to measure the specific gravity of liquids or the density of solids.
Hydrometer
An instrument used to determine specific gravity, especially a sealed, graduated tube, weighted at one end, that sinks in a fluid to a depth used as a measure of the fluid's specific gravity.
Areometer
An instrument for measuring the specific gravity of fluids; a form hydrometer.
Hydrometer
An instrument that floats in a liquid and measures its specific gravity on a scale.
Hydrometer
An instrument for determining the specific gravities of liquids, and thence the strength spirituous liquors, saline solutions, etc.
Hydrometer
An instrument, variously constructed, used for measuring the velocity or discharge of water, as in rivers, from reservoirs, etc., and called by various specific names according to its construction or use, as tachometer, rheometer, hydrometer, pendulum, etc.; a current gauge.
Hydrometer
A measuring instrument for determining the specific gravity of a liquid or solid
Common Curiosities
Can an areometer be used in brewing?
Yes, an areometer can be used in brewing, as it is a type of hydrometer.
What is the main difference between a hydrometer and an areometer?
A hydrometer is a general instrument for measuring the specific gravity of liquids, while an areometer is a specific type of hydrometer focused on measuring liquid density.
Can hydrometers measure the alcohol content of beverages?
Yes, specific types of hydrometers, known as alcohol hydrometers, are designed for this purpose.
Can areometers measure temperature?
No, areometers measure density; separate instruments are used for temperature.
Are hydrometers used in battery maintenance?
Yes, hydrometers are commonly used to measure the specific gravity of battery electrolytes.
In what contexts is the term "areometer" more commonly used?
The term "areometer" is more commonly used in scientific and technical contexts.
Is a lactometer a type of hydrometer?
Yes, a lactometer is a type of hydrometer used to measure the density of milk.
Are all hydrometers considered areometers?
No, not all hydrometers are called areometers; areometers are a specific subset used for density measurements.
Do hydrometers have scales for reading measurements?
Yes, hydrometers have scales that indicate the specific gravity or density of the liquid.
Do hydrometers require calibration?
Yes, hydrometers should be calibrated to ensure accurate measurements.
What liquids can be measured with an areometer?
Areometers can measure the density of various liquids, including water, alcohol, and chemical solutions.
Are areometers more accurate than general hydrometers?
Areometers can be more precise due to their specialized design for density measurement.
What industries use hydrometers?
Hydrometers are used in brewing, winemaking, battery maintenance, and various scientific fields.
Is training required to use a hydrometer or areometer?
Basic training or understanding of the instrument is beneficial for accurate readings.
Can you use a hydrometer for both liquids and solids?
No, hydrometers are specifically designed for measuring the specific gravity of liquids.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
