Vernier Caliper Least Count

A Vernier caliper is a precision measuring tool that is used to measure linear dimensions such as length, diameter, and thickness with high accuracy. The least count of a Vernier caliper is the smallest measurement that can be read and recorded by the instrument.

The least count of a Vernier caliper is determined by the number of divisions on the Vernier scale and the main scale. The Vernier scale is a graduated scale that slides along the main scale, and its divisions are slightly different in size from the divisions on the main scale.

For a typical Vernier caliper with a main scale that is graduated in millimeters, the Vernier scale usually has 10 divisions that cover a distance of 9 main scale divisions. Therefore, the least count of the caliper can be calculated as follows:

Least count = (main scale division) / (number of Vernier scale divisions)

= 1 mm / 10

= 0.1 mm

Therefore, the least count of a Vernier caliper is usually 0.1 mm, which means that it can measure dimensions with an accuracy of 0.1 mm. However, some Vernier calipers may have a different number of Vernier scale divisions or a different main scale unit, which would affect the least count of the instrument.

Vernier Caliper Least Count Calculator

Enter the number of divisions on the Vernier scale:

Enter the main scale unit (in mm):