The meter that is used to measure the distance moved by the vehicle is known as

General Science ·Previously asked in BPSC CCE 2024

View the full solved paper: GS 2024 (Series G)

Question

The meter that is used to measure the distance moved by the vehicle is known as

  1. A. Ammeter
  2. B. Speedometer
  3. C. Chronometer
  4. D. Odometer (Correct answer)

Correct Answer

Option D — Odometer

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is Odometer.

Key Points

  • An odometer is the instrument that measures the total distance travelled by a vehicle, shown on the dashboard.
  • The name derives from the Greek words hodos (meaning path) and metron (meaning measure).
  • The other instruments measure completely different quantities: a Speedometer measures the vehicle's instantaneous speed in km/h; an Ammeter measures electric current (in amperes) flowing in a circuit; and a Chronometer is a highly accurate timekeeping device, historically vital for determining longitude during sea navigation.
  • Since only the odometer measures distance covered, option (D) is the correct answer.

Additional Information

  • An odometer records cumulative distance; a speedometer shows instantaneous speed, and a tachometer measures engine revolutions per minute.
  • A trip meter is a resettable odometer used to measure a single journey.
  • Do not confuse it with the hodometer, an older surveying wheel used to measure ground distance on foot.