Potential density
Potential density is a dynamically important property: for static stability potential density must decrease upward. If it doesn't, a fluid parcel displaced upward finds itself lighter than its neighbors, and continues to move upward; similarly, a fluid parcel displaced downward would be heavier than its neighbors. This is true even if the density of the fluid decreases upward. In stable conditions (potential density decreasing upward) motion along surfaces of constant potential density (isopycnals) is energetically favored over flow across these surfaces (diapycnal flow), so most of the motion within a 3-D geophysical fluid takes place along these 2-D surfaces.
Gravitic density meter
A Gravitic density meter is a type of density meter used in multiple industries to measure the density of a slurry flowing through a pipe line. It consists of a flexible rubber hose that deflects when weight is flowing through the hose. A displacement measurement device, usually a high precision laser or load cell, is used to measure how much change has occurred in the system. 
By calculating the change of deflection of the hose, a gravitic density meter can be used to 
find the real time, continuous density.