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Easy⏱ time30 min$ cost2

Rain Gauge

Build and calibrate a gauge to measure rainfall and track it over weeks.

Start building ↓
fig — working model Result first

The build

Step 01

Make the gauge

Funnel into a straight jar.

Step 02

Mark a scale

Tape a ruler scale to the side.

Step 03

Place it open

Set it in the open, away from cover.

Step 04

Record

Log depth after each rain.

Working Principle

Rain falls evenly, so the depth collected in a straight-sided container equals the rainfall depth over any area.

The science behind it

A closer look

A constant cross-section means collected volume scales directly with depth, giving a true rainfall reading.

Take it further

Variables to test

  • 1 Compare open vs sheltered spots.
  • 2 Graph a month of rainfall.

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