Thermometer: Explained

A thermometer is a device used to measure temperature. It consists of a long, narrow, uniform glass tube with a bulb at one end. The bulb is filled with a liquid (usually mercury or colored alcohol) that expands and contracts with changes in temperature, causing the level of the liquid in the tube to rise or fall. The temperature can then be read from a scale marked on the tube.

Types of Thermometers

• Mercury Thermometer: Uses mercury as the liquid, but due to its toxic nature, it is being phased out in many places.
• Digital Thermometer: Uses electronic sensors to measure temperature and displays the results on a digital screen.
• Infrared Thermometer: Measures temperature from a distance by detecting the infrared energy emitted by an object.

How to Use a Thermometer

1. Shake the thermometer to ensure the liquid is below the highest temperature recorded.
2. Place the thermometer in the area to be measured and wait for the liquid to rise and stabilize.
3. Read the temperature from the scale at the level of the liquid.
4. Clean the thermometer after use and store it properly.

Study Guide

Use the following questions to test your understanding of thermometers:

1. What is a thermometer and how does it work?
2. List and describe three different types of thermometers.
3. Explain the steps to use a traditional glass thermometer.
4. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using a digital thermometer over a traditional mercury thermometer.
5. How does an infrared thermometer differ from a traditional thermometer?

By understanding the principles and types of thermometers, you will be able to effectively measure and monitor temperature in various situations.

[Thermometer] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• MeasurementMathematics • Fourth Grade