Which device is used to measure the velocity pressure of a stream of water?

The device utilized to measure the velocity pressure of a stream of water is known as the Pitot tube. This instrument is essential for determining the flow velocity and is commonly employed in various fluid flow applications, including firefighting operations. The Pitot tube measures the difference between static and dynamic pressure in the fluid stream, which is then used to calculate the velocity of the water.

When a Pitot tube is positioned in a flowing body of water, it captures the dynamic pressure exerted by the moving water. This pressure reading is a direct indicator of the fluid's velocity. The calculated velocity can help firefighters assess the effectiveness of a water supply and ensure proper flow rates during a firefighting operation. Understanding flow velocity is crucial for effective water delivery and firefighting strategies.

While other devices, such as pressure gauges, flow meters, and tachometers, serve important functions in different contexts, they are not specifically designed to measure velocity pressure in a fluid stream the way a Pitot tube does. For example, pressure gauges measure static pressure, flow meters can monitor the volume of water flow but may not provide direct velocity pressure measurement, and tachometers measure rotational speed, which is unrelated to fluid velocity in this context.