Timer

From Sciencemadness Wiki
Revision as of 22:10, 4 September 2023 by Mabus (Talk | contribs)

Jump to: navigation, search

A timer is a specialized type of clock used for measuring specific time intervals.

Description

Timers can be categorized into two main types. A timer which counts upwards from zero for measuring elapsed time is often called a stopwatch, while a device which counts down from a specified time interval is more usually called a timer. A simple example of this type is an hourglass.

Mechanical timers use clockwork to measure time. Manual timers are typically set by turning a dial to the time interval desired; turning the dial stores energy in a mainspring to run the mechanism. They function similarly to a mechanical alarm clock; the energy in the mainspring causes a balance wheel to rotate back and forth.

An egg timer or kitchen timer is a device whose primary function is to assist in timing during cooking; the name comes from the first timers initially being used for the timing of cooking eggs.

Availability

Timers of all kinds can be bought from most hardware stores or online. Lab suppliers also sell them.

Alternatives

You may use countless phone apps that include a timer.

One could also make a crude hourglass from a separatory funnel as a fun experiment.

References

Relevant Sciencemadness threads