Question

Which of the following raingauges gives data on intensity of rainfall?

• A. Tipping bucket
• B. Weighing bucket
• C. Syphon type
• D. Symon's gauge

Hint:

Remember: "Tipping bucket" is associated with "rainfall intensity" and digital telemetry, "Weighing/Syphon" with "cumulative mass curves", and "Symon's" with "non-recording daily totals".

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Rain gauges are instruments used to measure the depth of precipitation over a specific area.
They are broadly classified into non-recording rain gauges and recording (or automatic) rain gauges.
Recording rain gauges provide continuous records of rainfall over time, which can be used to determine the intensity of rainfall.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the characteristics of each rain gauge:
- Tipping bucket rain gauge: This consists of a pair of bucket-like compartments mounted on a pivot.
When $0.25\text{ mm}$ of rain falls into one bucket, it tips over, closes an electrical circuit, and sends a signal to a recorder.
The frequency of these tips directly indicates the intensity of rainfall over very short time intervals, making it ideal for intensity measurements.
- Weighing bucket rain gauge: This measures the cumulative weight of rainfall over time on a rotating drum.
While it can provide intensity data through mathematical differentiation of the mass curve, its primary output is cumulative rainfall.
- Natural syphon (float type) rain gauge: This uses a float chamber that empties automatically via a syphon when full.
It records cumulative rainfall and is the standard recording gauge in India, but is less direct than the tipping bucket for rapid intensity changes.
- Symon's rain gauge: This is a standard non-recording rain gauge that only provides total daily rainfall depth.
Therefore, the tipping bucket rain gauge is the most suitable device for direct intensity data.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The tipping bucket rain gauge is the instrument that directly gives data on the intensity of rainfall.