Measuring Water Temperature: The Laboratory Thermometer
In Activity 3.4: Measuring Temperature of Water with a Laboratory Thermometer, you will learn how to use a laboratory thermometer and understand how temperature is measured.
Objective
To understand how a laboratory thermometer works and the concept of steady state in temperature reading.
Materials Needed
- A laboratory thermometer
- A beaker or mug
- Tap water
Steps to Follow
- Fill the Container: Take some tap water and put it in a beaker or mug.
- Place the Thermometer: Dip the thermometer in the water. Make sure that the bulb at the end of the thermometer is completely immersed in the water, but not touching the bottom or sides of the container.
- Hold it Correctly: Hold the thermometer vertically. This means you should keep it straight up and down, not tilted.
- Watch the Mercury: Look at the mercury in the thermometer. You will see it moving as it adjusts to the temperature of the water.
- Wait for Steady State: Wait until the mercury stops moving and becomes steady. This is when it has reached the temperature of the water.
What You Learn
- How to Use a Laboratory Thermometer: This thermometer is different from a clinical thermometer. It’s used to measure the temperature of substances, not the human body.
- Steady State Concept: The mercury needs to stop moving for an accurate reading. This is called the ‘steady state’. It means the thermometer has fully adjusted to the water’s temperature.
- Precautions in Using a Laboratory Thermometer: It should be kept upright and the bulb should be surrounded by water but not touching the container.
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Conclusion
By doing this activity, you learn how to use a laboratory thermometer and understand the importance of waiting for the mercury to reach a steady state for an accurate temperature reading. This teaches you about precise measurement in physics and the correct way to use scientific instruments.
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