What is the force of attraction between any two objects with mass called?
- Magnetism
- Gravity
- Cohesion
- Adhesion
Correct Answer: Gravity
Correct Answer Explanation: Gravity is the force that pulls objects towards each other. It’s what keeps us grounded on Earth and what causes planets to orbit the sun.
Which of these oils is NOT derived from an animal source?
- Porpoise jaw oil
- Blackfish melon oil
- Sperm oil
- Neutral oil
Correct Answer: Neutral oil
Correct Answer Explanation: Neutral oil is a refined mineral oil, derived from petroleum distillation. The other oils are extracted from various marine animals.
What is the primary type of friction encountered in watch mechanisms?
- Sliding friction
- Rolling friction
- Fluid friction
- Compound friction
Correct Answer: Compound friction
Correct Answer Explanation: Compound friction involves both solid and fluid friction, which is the combination of friction between the surfaces of watch parts and the oil that lubricates them.
What is the approximate melting point of solid paraffine, the source of neutral oil?
- 0°C (32°F)
- 20°C (68°F)
- 43°C (109.4°F)
- 60°C (140°F)
Correct Answer: 43°C (109.4°F)
Correct Answer Explanation: Solid paraffine melts at a relatively low temperature, making it a suitable source for neutral oil, which remains liquid at normal temperatures.
What is the force that holds molecules of the same substance together called?
- Magnetism
- Gravity
- Cohesion
- Adhesion
Correct Answer: Cohesion
Correct Answer Explanation: Cohesion is the force that binds molecules of the same substance together. It’s what gives liquids their surface tension and allows them to form droplets.
Which of the following best describes the key property of watch oil that helps prevent wear and maintain lubrication under pressure?
- Resistance to oxidation
- Temperature stability
- Viscosity
- Capillarity
Correct Answer: Viscosity
Correct Answer Explanation: Viscosity is the measure of an oil’s resistance to flow. It’s essential for watch oils to maintain their viscosity under pressure to prevent wear on moving parts.
What is the process by which one substance takes in another substance called?
- Absorption
- Adhesion
- Cohesion
- Capillarity
Correct Answer: Absorption
Correct Answer Explanation: Absorption is the process where one substance takes in another. It’s different from adhesion, which is the force that holds two substances together.
Which of these is NOT a benefit of using mineral oils like neutral oil for watch lubrication?
- Purity
- Resistance to gumming
- Resistance to oxidation
- Greater viscosity at room temperature
Correct Answer: Greater viscosity at room temperature
Correct Answer Explanation: Mineral oils generally have a lower viscosity than animal oils, which is an advantage in some applications but not necessarily a benefit in all cases. Animal oils are often preferred for their higher viscosity.
What is the force that holds molecules of different substances together called?
- Magnetism
- Gravity
- Cohesion
- Adhesion
Correct Answer: Adhesion
Correct Answer Explanation: Adhesion is the force that holds molecules of different substances together. It’s what allows glue to stick to paper and paint to adhere to walls.
What is the measurement of an oil’s resistance to flow called?
- Viscosity
- Capillarity
- Coefficient of friction
- Resistance to oxidation
Correct Answer: Viscosity
Correct Answer Explanation: Viscosity is the measure of an oil’s resistance to flow. It’s an important property for lubricants, as it determines how well the oil can stay in place and resist being squeezed out.
Which of these materials is LEAST likely to be used for watch bearings?
- Steel
- Brass
- Ruby
- Sapphire
Correct Answer: Brass
Correct Answer Explanation: Brass is a softer metal than steel, ruby, or sapphire, and is not as durable for watch bearings. Ruby and sapphire are preferred for their hardness and resistance to wear.
What is the rise or fall of a liquid in a narrow tube or between closely spaced surfaces due to surface tension called?
- Viscosity
- Absorption
- Cohesion
- Capillarity
Correct Answer: Capillarity
Correct Answer Explanation: Capillarity is the phenomenon where liquids rise or fall in narrow tubes or between close surfaces due to surface tension. It’s important in horology because it allows oil to be drawn into tiny spaces within watch mechanisms.
What is the outward force exerted on an object moving in a circular path called?
- Centrifugal force
- Centripetal force
- Gravity
- Friction
Correct Answer: Centrifugal force
Correct Answer Explanation: Centrifugal force is the outward force that an object experiences when moving in a circular path. It’s what makes you feel pulled outward when riding a carousel.
Which of these is NOT a factor that can affect the coefficient of friction?
- Temperature
- Velocity
- Viscosity
- Pressure
Correct Answer: Viscosity
Correct Answer Explanation: While viscosity is a property of a lubricant, it doesn’t directly affect the coefficient of friction. The coefficient of friction depends on the materials in contact, the surface conditions, and the applied force.
Which of the following watch components is LEAST likely to be affected by friction?
- Barrel arbor
- Balance arbor
- Hairspring
- Crystal
Correct Answer: Crystal
Correct Answer Explanation: The crystal is a stationary component of a watch and is not subject to significant friction. The other components, such as the barrel arbor, balance arbor, and hairspring, are all moving parts that experience friction during operation.
What is the approximate volume of oil used annually by the Elgin National Watch Co.?
- 1 gallon
- 1-1/2 gallons
- 10 gallons
- 20 gallons
Correct Answer: 1-1/2 gallons
Correct Answer Explanation: Elgin National Watch Co. used approximately 1-1/2 gallons of oil annually, reflecting the significant volume of lubricant required for their watch production.
What is the primary reason why animal oils, such as porpoise jaw oil, were so widely used in horology before the advent of mineral oils?
- They were readily available and inexpensive.
- They had superior lubricating qualities compared to previously used substances.
- They were easy to refine and purify.
- They were less prone to oxidation and gumming than mineral oils.
Correct Answer: They had superior lubricating qualities compared to previously used substances.
Correct Answer Explanation: Animal oils, particularly porpoise jaw oil, were valued for their excellent lubricating properties, making them ideal for delicate watch mechanisms.
What is the primary cause of friction between solid surfaces?
- The interlocking of asperities
- The presence of a lubricating fluid
- The difference in their masses
- The speed at which they are moving
Correct Answer: The interlocking of asperities
Correct Answer Explanation: The microscopic irregularities, or asperities, on solid surfaces cause them to interlock and create friction. This is why smoother surfaces generally experience less friction.
What is the approximate weight of a blackfish melon?
- 5 pounds
- 10 pounds
- 25 pounds
- 50 pounds
Correct Answer: 25 pounds
Correct Answer Explanation: Blackfish melons, the source of blackfish melon oil, can weigh up to 25 pounds.
What is the approximate amount of oil used annually by the Waterbury Watch Co.?
- 1 gallon
- 1-1/2 gallons
- 10 gallons
- 20 gallons
Correct Answer: 1 gallon
Correct Answer Explanation: The Waterbury Watch Co., like many other watch manufacturers, used a significant amount of oil for their production, with their annual consumption estimated to be around 1 gallon.
What is the primary purpose of oiling watch components?
- To prevent rust and corrosion.
- To reduce friction and wear.
- To increase the power reserve of the watch.
- To improve the accuracy of the watch.
Correct Answer: To reduce friction and wear.
Correct Answer Explanation: Oiling watch components is crucial for reducing friction and wear between moving parts, ensuring their smooth operation and extending their lifespan.
Which of these is NOT a common characteristic of mineral oils?
- Derived from petroleum distillation
- More prone to gumming than animal oils
- Offer advantages over animal oils in terms of purity
- Generally have a lower viscosity than animal oils
Correct Answer: More prone to gumming than animal oils
Correct Answer Explanation: Mineral oils are actually less prone to gumming than animal oils, one of the advantages they offer over animal oils.
Which of these is NOT a common reason for a loose bearing in a watch mechanism?
- Worn pivots
- Improper oiling
- Incorrect pivot size
- Increased power reserve
Correct Answer: Increased power reserve
Correct Answer Explanation: Increased power reserve does not contribute to a loose bearing. A loose bearing is typically caused by worn pivots, improper oiling, or an incorrect pivot size.
What is the primary reason why the laws of friction differ for solids, liquids, and gases?
- The difference in their masses
- The difference in their viscosities
- The difference in their molecular structures
- The difference in their densities
Correct Answer: The difference in their molecular structures
Correct Answer Explanation: The laws of friction differ because of the different ways molecules interact in solids, liquids, and gases. In solids, molecules are tightly packed and move in a rigid way, while in liquids, molecules are more loosely packed and move more freely, and in gases, molecules are far apart and move randomly.
What is the approximate amount of iron dissolved in 24 hours by neat’s-foot oil?
- 0.0875 grain
- 0.2200 grain
- 1 grain
- 5 grains
Correct Answer: 0.0875 grain
Correct Answer Explanation: Neat’s-foot oil, though commonly used for lubrication, can cause some corrosion of iron, with a measured amount of 0.0875 grain dissolved in 24 hours.
What is the primary source of friction in a watch mechanism?
- The interaction between the hairspring and the balance wheel
- The movement of the hands
- The contact between the gears and the pivots
- The interaction between the crown and the winding mechanism
Correct Answer: The contact between the gears and the pivots
Correct Answer Explanation: The primary source of friction in a watch mechanism comes from the contact between the gears and the pivots as they rotate against each other. This is where lubrication is most crucial to reduce wear and tear.
What is the primary difference between solid friction and fluid friction?
- Solid friction occurs between solid surfaces, while fluid friction occurs between fluids.
- Solid friction is always greater than fluid friction.
- Solid friction is independent of surface area, while fluid friction is dependent on surface area.
- Solid friction is affected by temperature, while fluid friction is not.
Correct Answer: Solid friction occurs between solid surfaces, while fluid friction occurs between fluids.
Correct Answer Explanation: Solid friction is the force that resists the sliding motion of two solid surfaces in contact, while fluid friction is the resistance to flow in liquids and gases.
What is the primary role of the hairspring in a watch mechanism?
- To provide power to the watch
- To regulate the speed of the balance wheel
- To transmit power from the mainspring to the gear train
- To indicate the time
Correct Answer: To regulate the speed of the balance wheel
Correct Answer Explanation: The hairspring, a delicate spiral spring, is essential for regulating the speed of the balance wheel, which is the heart of a mechanical watch.
What is the approximate amount of copper dissolved in 10 days by olive oil?
- 0.0875 grain
- 0.2200 grain
- 1 grain
- 5 grains
Correct Answer: 0.2200 grain
Correct Answer Explanation: Olive oil, though a traditional lubricant, has a relatively high corrosive effect on copper, dissolving about 0.2200 grains in 10 days.
What is the approximate amount of oil used annually by the Seth Thomas Clock Co. for their tower clocks?
- 1 gallon
- 1-1/2 gallons
- 10 gallons
- 20 gallons
Correct Answer: 10 gallons
Correct Answer Explanation: Tower clocks, with their larger mechanisms and greater forces involved, require a significant amount of oil for lubrication. Seth Thomas Clock Co. used approximately 10 gallons of oil annually for their tower clocks.
What is the primary purpose of using jewels in watch bearings?
- To reduce friction and wear
- To increase the power reserve of the watch
- To improve the accuracy of the watch
- To enhance the appearance of the watch
Correct Answer: To reduce friction and wear
Correct Answer Explanation: Jewels, like rubies and sapphires, are used in watch bearings for their exceptional hardness and smoothness. This helps minimize friction and wear, prolonging the life of the watch mechanism.
What is the approximate amount of oil used annually by the E. Howard Watch & Clock Co. for their regulators?
- 1 gallon
- 1-1/2 gallons
- 10 gallons
- 20 gallons
Correct Answer: 1 gallon
Correct Answer Explanation: Regulators, which are highly accurate clocks used for timekeeping, require careful lubrication, and E. Howard Watch & Clock Co. used approximately 1 gallon of oil annually for their regulators.
What is the primary difference between a watch and a clock?
- Watches are worn on the wrist, while clocks are stationary.
- Watches are typically smaller than clocks.
- Watches are powered by a mainspring, while clocks are powered by a pendulum.
- Watches are more accurate than clocks.
Correct Answer: Watches are worn on the wrist, while clocks are stationary.
Correct Answer Explanation: The primary distinction between a watch and a clock is their portability. Watches are designed to be worn on the wrist, making them portable timekeeping devices, while clocks are stationary, typically placed on a wall or shelf.
What is the approximate amount of oil used annually by the New Haven Clock Co. for their clock-watches?
- 1 gallon
- 1-1/2 gallons
- 10 gallons
- 20 gallons
Correct Answer: 20 gallons
Correct Answer Explanation: New Haven Clock Co. produced both clocks and watches, and their annual oil consumption for clock-watches was estimated to be around 20 gallons.
What is the approximate amount of oil used annually by the Ingraham Clock Co.?
- 1 gallon
- 1-1/2 gallons
- 10 gallons
- 12 gallons
Correct Answer: 12 gallons
Correct Answer Explanation: Ingraham Clock Co., known for its clock production, used approximately 12 gallons of oil annually for its clocks.
What is the primary reason why a loose bearing can lead to increased friction and wear?
- It allows the pivot to move freely, causing excessive contact between the pivot and the bearing.
- It reduces the amount of oil that can be applied to the bearing.
- It increases the load on the bearing, causing it to wear more quickly.
- It allows dirt and debris to enter the bearing, increasing friction.
Correct Answer: It allows the pivot to move freely, causing excessive contact between the pivot and the bearing.
Correct Answer Explanation: A loose bearing allows the pivot to move excessively within the bearing, causing increased contact and friction between the two surfaces. This leads to accelerated wear and tear.
What is the primary reason why oiling a watch is important for its accuracy?
- It reduces friction, allowing the balance wheel to oscillate more freely, resulting in more precise timing.
- It prevents rust and corrosion, which can affect the movement of the watch.
- It increases the power reserve of the watch, ensuring it runs longer.
- It reduces the weight of the watch, making it more efficient.
Correct Answer: It reduces friction, allowing the balance wheel to oscillate more freely, resulting in more precise timing.
Correct Answer Explanation: Friction slows down the movement of the balance wheel, affecting the watch’s accuracy. Lubrication reduces friction, allowing the balance wheel to oscillate more freely and consistently, resulting in more precise timekeeping.
What is the primary reason why it is important to choose the correct oil for each watch component?
- Different oils have different viscosities, and each component requires a specific level of viscosity for optimal lubrication.
- Different oils have different colors, and each component requires a specific color for aesthetic reasons.
- Different oils have different scents, and each component requires a specific scent to avoid unpleasant odors.
- Different oils have different chemical compositions, and each component requires a specific composition to prevent corrosion.
Correct Answer: Different oils have different viscosities, and each component requires a specific level of viscosity for optimal lubrication.
Correct Answer Explanation: Different watch components require oils with varying viscosities for optimal lubrication. Thin oils are suitable for delicate components like the hairspring, while thicker oils are better suited for bearings under heavy loads.
What is the primary reason why the selection and application of watch oils must be tailored to specific conditions?
- Temperature affects the viscosity of oil, and using the wrong oil for the temperature can lead to poor lubrication.
- Humidity can affect the performance of oil, and using the wrong oil for the humidity can lead to corrosion.
- The type of watch mechanism can affect the amount of oil needed, and using the wrong oil for the mechanism can lead to damage.
- All of the above
Correct Answer: All of the above
Correct Answer Explanation: The choice and application of watch oils need to consider various factors like temperature, humidity, and the specific type of watch mechanism to ensure proper lubrication and prevent potential problems.
What is the primary difference between porpoise jaw oil and blackfish melon oil?
- Porpoise jaw oil is extracted from the jaw of a porpoise, while blackfish melon oil is extracted from the melon of a blackfish.
- Porpoise jaw oil has a higher viscosity than blackfish melon oil.
- Porpoise jaw oil is more resistant to oxidation than blackfish melon oil.
- All of the above
Correct Answer: All of the above
Correct Answer Explanation: Porpoise jaw oil and blackfish melon oil are both valuable watch oils, but they differ in their sources, viscosity, and resistance to oxidation. Porpoise jaw oil is extracted from the jaw of a porpoise, while blackfish melon oil is extracted from the melon of a blackfish. Porpoise jaw oil has a higher viscosity and is more resistant to oxidation than blackfish melon oil.
What is the primary reason why solid paraffine is not directly used as a watch lubricant?
- It is too thick and viscous to flow easily through the tiny spaces in a watch mechanism.
- It is too volatile and evaporates quickly at normal temperatures.
- It is too corrosive and can damage watch components.
- It is too expensive to produce.
Correct Answer: It is too thick and viscous to flow easily through the tiny spaces in a watch mechanism.
Correct Answer Explanation: Solid paraffine is a thick, waxy substance that is not suitable for direct use as a watch lubricant because its viscosity is too high for it to flow easily through the small spaces in a watch mechanism. It’s typically refined into neutral oil, which has a lower viscosity and is more suitable for lubrication.
What is the approximate coefficient of friction for dry steel on steel?
- 0.118
- 0.351
- 0.5
- 1.0
Correct Answer: 0.351
Correct Answer Explanation: The coefficient of friction, a measure of the force needed to overcome friction, is significantly higher for dry steel on steel (0.351) compared to oiled steel on steel (0.118).
What is the primary reason why proper oiling techniques are crucial for the longevity and accuracy of a watch?
- It ensures that oil is applied evenly and stays in place, preventing wear and tear on moving parts.
- It minimizes the risk of oil contamination, ensuring optimal performance.
- It prevents the oil from drying out or gumming up, extending its effectiveness.
- All of the above
Correct Answer: All of the above
Correct Answer Explanation: Proper oiling techniques are crucial for the longevity and accuracy of a watch because they ensure that the oil is applied correctly, prevents contamination, and maintains its effectiveness over time.
What is the approximate diameter of the pivots used in Jenkin and Ewing’s experiments on friction?
- 0.1 cm
- 0.25 cm
- 1 cm
- 2.5 cm
Correct Answer: 0.25 cm
Correct Answer Explanation: Jenkin and Ewing’s experiments on friction involved pivots with a diameter of approximately 0.25 cm, which is similar to the size of a pivot in a large barrel arbor.
What is the primary reason why the amount of oil used by a watch manufacturer can vary significantly?
- The size and complexity of the watches they produce
- The type of oils they use
- The quality of their oiling techniques
- All of the above
Correct Answer: All of the above
Correct Answer Explanation: The amount of oil used by a watch manufacturer can vary significantly based on several factors, including the size and complexity of the watches they produce, the type of oils they use, and the quality of their oiling techniques.