A pluviometer (also known as a rain gauge) is an instrument used to measure the amount of precipitation (rain, snow, sleet, or hail) that falls over a specific area during a certain period of time. The device consists of a cylinder that collects the precipitation and a scale that measures the depth of the collected water.


A pluviometer, commonly referred to as a rain gauge, serves as an essential instrument for measuring precipitation, which includes various forms like rain, snow, sleet, or hail. This device plays a crucial role in meteorology, environmental monitoring, and hydrology by providing valuable data on precipitation levels.

The typical design of a pluviometer involves a cylindrical container that collects the precipitation. The accumulated water is then measured using a calibrated scale, allowing meteorologists and researchers to determine the depth of the collected precipitation over a specified area during a specific time frame.

Accurate precipitation measurements are vital for understanding weather patterns, water resource management, and climate research. Pluviometers contribute to enhancing our understanding of the Earth's water cycle and its impact on different ecosystems.