vattenklockor

Vattenklockor, also known as clepsydras, are timekeeping devices that measure time by the regulated flow of liquid, typically water. They are among the oldest timekeeping instruments, with evidence of their use dating back to ancient Egypt and Babylon. The fundamental principle involves a container with a precisely sized opening, allowing liquid to flow out at a controlled rate. As the liquid level decreases, a marker, often a floating object, indicates the passage of time on a calibrated scale.

There are two main types of vattenklockor: outflow and inflow. Outflow clepsydras use a vessel from which liquid drains, while inflow clepsydras use a vessel that fills with liquid. The accuracy of a vattenklocka is dependent on maintaining a consistent flow rate, which can be challenging due to factors like changes in water pressure and temperature. Despite these limitations, they were crucial for early astronomical observations, scheduling religious ceremonies, and managing daily activities before the advent of more sophisticated timekeeping mechanisms like mechanical clocks. Their simplicity and reliance on readily available materials made them a widespread technology for centuries.