2007-01-24 01:32:08 · 4 answers · asked by bnj 3 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
When you use a hydrometer to determine the charge of a lead-acid battery, you are measuring the amount of acid in the electrolyte. Low acid (usually about 35%) means there is not enough for the needed chemical reaction when you draw current. Charging the battery returns acid (from the plates) to the electrolyte. The hydrometer measures the specific gravity (density) of the electrolyte that varies with the concentration of acid.
2007-01-24 01:55:18 · answer #1 · answered by Kes 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When you test a battery with a hydrometer you are measuring the amount of acid in the electrolyte.
2007-01-24 09:37:08 · answer #2 · answered by gebobs 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The function of the hydrometer is based on Archimedes principle that a solid suspended in a liquid will be buoyed up by a force equal to the weight of the liquid displaced. Thus, the lower the density of the substance, the lower the hydrometer will sink.
Read all about it on Wiki
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrometer
2007-01-24 09:36:06 · answer #3 · answered by Dr Dave P 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it test the specific gravity of the acid ( which has a value that differs depending on the level of charge )
2007-01-24 09:36:39 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋