A storm glass, specifically a Goethe storm glass, measures changes in atmospheric air pressure.
Understanding the Storm Glass
According to the reference, a Goethe storm glass functions as a type of water barometer. It is designed with a glass bulb filled with colored water and a long, narrow spout that extends upwards from near the base of the main body.
How it Works
The principle behind a storm glass is simple yet ingenious:
- The sealed glass bulb contains colored water.
- The long, open spout allows the water inside to be influenced by the air pressure outside.
- As atmospheric air pressure changes, the level of the water in the spout will rise or fall.
Essentially, it provides a visual indication of whether the surrounding air pressure is increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable. A common observation is that falling pressure often correlates with approaching storms, although the storm glass is primarily a barometer showing pressure changes, not predicting specific weather events with certainty.
Key Takeaway
Based on its design and function as a water barometer, a storm glass serves as an indicator of changes in atmospheric pressure.
