Question

The instrument used to measure the salt percentage of pickles is__________

• A. Polarimeter
• B. Brinograph
• C. Saltmeter
• D. Ionograph

Hint:

For instrumentation questions, the most direct and specific name is usually the correct answer. To measure salt, you use a saltmeter. To measure pH, you use a pH meter.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Pickling is a preservation method that relies on high concentrations of salt or acid. Measuring the salt percentage in the brine is crucial for ensuring product safety, quality, and consistency. The question asks for the specific instrument used for this purpose.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
- A Saltmeter, also known as a salinometer or salometer, is an instrument designed to measure the salinity or salt content of a solution. These devices often work by measuring the electrical conductivity of the brine, which increases with salt concentration, or by measuring its specific gravity (using a hydrometer specifically calibrated for salt).
- Polarimeter: Measures the rotation of polarized light, used for determining the concentration of optically active substances like sugar.
- Brinograph: This is not a standard term. A Brinell hardness tester is used in metallurgy.
- Ionograph: A more general instrument used to measure the concentration of ionic contaminants, often on electronic circuit boards. While salt is ionic, "Saltmeter" is the specific and correct term for this food application.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The instrument specifically used to measure the salt percentage in pickles or brine is a Saltmeter. Therefore, option (C) is the correct answer.