thermometer
Definition
A thermometer is an instrument used to measure temperature. It works by measuring the expansion or contraction of a liquid or gas in response to a change in temperature.
The most common type of thermometer is the mercury thermometer. Mercury is a liquid metal that expands and contracts very easily. It is also non-toxic and relatively inexpensive.
Other types of thermometers include alcohol thermometers, bimetallic thermometers, and digital thermometers. Alcohol thermometers use alcohol instead of mercury. Bimetallic thermometers use two different metals that expand and contract at different rates. Digital thermometers use a sensor to measure temperature and display the reading on a digital display.
Thermometers are used in a variety of applications, including medicine, cooking, and weather forecasting. They are an essential tool for measuring temperature and understanding the world around us.
How can the word be used?
The thermometer showed that the room temperature was 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
Different forms of the word
Noun: thermometer (plural: thermometers).
Adjective: thermometric.
Verb: to thermometrize.
Etymology
The word "thermal" comes from the Greek word "θέρμη" (thérmē), which means "heat". It was first borrowed into English in the 17th century, and it has been used in a variety of contexts ever since.
Question
What metal is used in a thermometer?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the function and operation of a thermometer. Describe the principles behind temperature measurement using a thermometer and the different types of thermometers commonly used. Provide an example of a situation where a specific type of thermometer would be the most suitable choice.
Answer:
A thermometer is an instrument used to measure temperature. It operates based on the principle that materials expand or contract with temperature changes. The most common type of thermometer is a mercury-in-glass thermometer, where the expansion of mercury in a narrow tube indicates temperature changes.
Temperature measurement using a thermometer involves placing the thermometer in contact with the substance being measured. As the substance's temperature changes, it causes the liquid (such as mercury or alcohol) in the thermometer to expand or contract, leading to a corresponding change in the height of the liquid column.
Various types of thermometers are used depending on the application. For instance, a digital thermometer employs electronic sensors to measure temperature and displays the reading digitally. Infrared thermometers detect the infrared radiation emitted by an object and convert it into a temperature reading without physical contact.
In a medical setting, a digital thermometer would be a suitable choice for measuring a patient's body temperature quickly and accurately. Its digital display ensures easy reading, and it eliminates the need for potentially hazardous materials like mercury.