What is the primary use of an anemometer?

The primary use of an anemometer is to measure wind speed. An anemometer typically consists of rotating cups or blades that spin when air flows past them, and the rate at which they spin correlates directly to the speed of the wind. This measurement is crucial for understanding weather patterns, predicting storms, and for various applications in fields such as meteorology, aviation, and environmental studies.

Other instruments measure different atmospheric conditions, such as thermometers for temperature or hygrometers for humidity, but anemometers specifically focus on capturing the dynamics of wind, which is essential for tasks ranging from sailing to wind energy production. Understanding wind patterns helps in many practical applications, making the anemometer a valuable tool in both science and industry.