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A U-tube manometer is a simple instrument used to measure pressure differences. It consists of a U-shaped tube containing a liquid, typically mercury, oil, alcohol, or water. One end of the tube is exposed to one pressure, while the other end is exposed to a second pressure.12

The difference in the liquid levels between the two arms of the U-tube indicates the pressure difference. This difference is calculated by multiplying the difference in height by the density of the liquid. U-tube manometers are effective for measuring static pressures, especially when one of the pressures is atmospheric.12

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