What is a thermometer?
A thermometer is an instrument that measures temperature. A thermometer is an instrument that measures temperature. It can measure the temperature of a solid such as food, a liquid such as water, or a gas such as air. The three most common units of measurement for temperature are Celsius, Fahrenheit, and kelvin.
What do you need to know about outdoor thermometers?
For many people, a basic device that simply measures outdoor temperature is all that’s needed. However, today’s outdoor thermometers—often called weather stations—include wireless multipurpose devices that also display humidity, wind, and other atmospheric data.
How to choose the right thermometer?
The thermometer's temperature and humidity percentage trend should be shown with accuracy. It should have the feature to track the records of temperature and humidity for a long period of time. Having a convenient thermometer is important if you have to measure temperature frequently.
What kind of thermometer do you use to measure ear temperature?
Digital ear thermometers. Digital ear thermometers, also called tympanic thermometers, use an infrared ray to measure the temperature inside the ear canal. The pros: When positioned properly, digital ear thermometers are quick and generally comfortable for children and adults.
What are the 4 types of thermometers?
There is a range of thermometers available for home use, including digital, ear, strip and infrared thermometers. Some thermometers are more suited for specific age groups and situations.
What is a thermometer for weather?
A weather thermometer will tell you how hot or cold it is. A weather thermometer is usually inside a closed glass tube containing liquids like alcohol or mercury. Temperature is measured in Celsius or Fahrenheit, depending on where you are located in the world.
What are the most accurate outdoor thermometers?
Marathon BA030001 Vertical Thermometers1 Newentor Indoor Outdoor Thermometers – Best Overall.2 ThermoPro TP62 Thermometers – Runner Up.3 Outdoor Thermometer by Taylor Precision Products – Honorable Mention.4 Springfield 90050 Dial Thermometers – Also Consider.5 Marathon BA030001 Vertical Thermometers – Solar-Powered.
What is a outdoor thermometer used for?
A: The main reason to get this type of thermometer is that it allows you to take readings without having to step out of the house. However, there are other uses. It measures more than temperature and can be used to measure humidity, barometric pressure, humidity, and sometimes even gauge the state of our moon.
What are the 4 ways we measure weather?
Here are some examples of weather instruments:Thermometers measure the temperature.Barometers measure atmospheric pressure. Atmospheric pressure is also called air pressure.Hygrometers measure humidity. Humidity is the concentration of water vapour in the air.
What is an air thermometer called?
Galileo thermometers are used to measure indoor air temperature, due to their limited measurement range.
What is the best way to measure outside temperature?
When you are measuring the air temperature, be sure to have the thermometer in the shade. If the sun shines on the thermometer, it heats the liquid. Then the reading is higher than the true air temperature. Also, when you take the thermometer outside, give it enough time to adjust to the outdoor air temperature.
Where should you hang an outdoor thermometer?
Place it so that it is not in direct sunlight at any time. The shade of a tree and a north-facing porch are two good places. Place the thermometer four to six feet above the ground in an area where there is sufficient airflow. Finally, keep it protected from rain, snow, and ice.
How do you measure outdoor temperature accurately?
How to Measure Temperature CorrectlyPlace the thermometer 5 feet above the ground (+/- 1 ft.). ... The thermometer must be placed in the shade. ... Have good air flow for your thermometer. ... Place the thermometer over a grassy or dirt surface. ... Keep the thermometer covered.
What's the difference between an indoor and outdoor thermometer?
An indoor–outdoor thermometer is a thermometer that simultaneously provides a measurement of the indoor and outdoor temperatures. The outdoor part of the thermometer requires some kind of remote temperature sensing device.
What is the difference between indoor and outdoor thermometer?
The outdoor thermometer is weather-resistant, and can wirelessly transmit accurate outside temperature information to the indoor display. The indoor display can flip between current indoor and outdoor temperature with a quick press of a button.
Which brand of thermometer is the most accurate?
Because the Kinsa Quickcare Thermometer is easy to use, delivers accurate results, and provides personalized guidance based on your body temperature, we named it the best overall. If you're looking for a thermometer specially designed for a fever, the Vick's Speedread Digital Thermometer is another great option.
What form of temperature measurement is the most accurate?
rectal temperatureA rectal temperature is generally considered to be the most accurate, and the standard for monitoring the core body temperature, but it is generally not recommended for use in patients, due to the risk of rectal perforation and tears with this method. Have a separate thermometer to use for oral than for rectal.
Which thermometer method is most accurate?
Rectal temps are the most accurate. Forehead temps are the next most accurate. Oral and ear temps are also accurate if done properly. Temps done in the armpit are the least accurate.
What is the most accurate temperature measuring device?
Digital thermometers1. Digital thermometers. Digital thermometers are more advanced types of thermometers, and when used correctly, provide the most accurate results. They are also easy to use, cost-friendly, and are widely available.
How do you know if a thermometer is accurate?
To check if a thermometer is accurate, we need to insert the stem of the thermometer in the ice water such that the stem is at least an inch deep w...
Why should I have an indoor-outdoor thermometer?
The main reason to get this type of thermometer is that it allows you to take readings without having to step out of the house. However, there are...
How long does it take a thermometer to get to the correct temperature?
This will mainly depend on the type of thermometer which you use and how you use it. Classic thermometers usually work when the active part of the...
How does an electronic thermometer work?
Electronic thermometer s work with an instrument called a thermistor. A thermistor changes its resistance to an electric current based on the temperature. A computer measures the thermistor’s resistance and convert s it to a temperature reading.
What temperature does a liquid thermometer measure?
Liquid thermometers can be limited by the type of liquid used. Mercury, for instance, becomes a solid at -38.83 degrees Celsius (-37.89 degrees Fahrenheit). Mercury thermometers cannot measure temperatures below this point. Alcohols, such as ethanol, boil at about 78 degrees Celsius (172 degrees Fahrenheit).
What is the unit of measurement used to measure temperature?
thermometer. A thermometer is an instrument that measures temperature. It can measure the temperature of a solid such as food, a liquid such as water, or a gas such as air. The three most common units of measurement for temperature are Celsius, Fahrenheit, and kelvin. The Celsius scale is part of the metric system.
What happens when the temperature of a liquid rises?
When heat rises, the liquid expand s from a bowl or bulb into the empty area, climbing up the tube. When the temperature falls, the liquid contract s and goes back down. Liquid thermometers often include both Celsius and Fahrenheit temperature scales, which are display ed on either side of the tube.
What is the liquid in a thermometer?
Liquid expands at a regular, measureable rate when it is heated. For this reason, a common form of thermometer contains a liquid in a narrow glass tube. Mercury is one of the most familiar materials used in liquid thermometers. Other liquids, such as kerosene or ethanol, may also be used in these types of thermometers.
How do pill thermometers work?
Pill thermometers use liquid crystal s to track changes in body heat and transmit radio wave s to a source outside the body, which records and displays this data . Researchers at Harvard University have developed a nanothermometer that is able to measure temperature variations inside a single living cell.
Why is the Kelvin scale important?
This makes the kelvin scale essential to scientists who calculate the temperature of objects in the cold reaches of outer space . Water freezes at 273 kelvins, and boils at 373 kelvins. We do not read outdoor temperatures in the kelvin scale because it uses such large numbers—a 75-degree Fahrenheit day would be read as 297 kelvins!
How accurate is an oral thermometer?
For older children and adults, oral readings are usually accurate — as long as the mouth is closed while the thermometer is in place. The pros: Most electronic contact thermometers can record temperatures from the forehead, mouth, armpit or rectum — often in less than one minute. An electronic contact thermometer is appropriate for newborns, ...
What is a remote temporal artery thermometer?
Temporal artery thermometers. Remote forehead thermometers use an infrared scanner to measure the temperature of the temporal artery in the forehead. A remote temporal artery thermometer can record a person's temperature quickly and are easily tolerated.
Why are mercury thermometers no longer recommended?
Mercury thermometers are no longer recommended because they can break and allow mercury — which is toxic — to escape.
What are the two types of thermometers?
In general, there are two types of thermometers. Touch, or contact, thermometers must touch the body in order to measure temperature. Remote, or no contact, thermometers can measure body temperature without touching the skin.
Where to use contact thermometer?
These thermometers can be used on the forehead, mouth, armpit or rectum. Most electronic thermometers have a digital display that shows you the temperature reading.
Is an infrared thermometer safe for children?
When positioned properly, infrared ear thermometers are quick and generally comfortable for children and adults.
Can children keep their mouths closed?
It can be difficult for children — or anyone who breathes through the mouth — to keep their mouths closed long enough to get an accurate oral reading.
How does a digital thermometer work?
A digital thermometer is a thermometer that is generally used to measure a person’s body temperature by tucking it in the armpit or in the mouth. This thermometer is made of plastic and is shaped like stationery. This thermometer uses an electronic sensor to detect body temperature.
What is mercury thermometer?
A mercury thermometer is a thermometer that uses mercury as a filler. When the hot temperature is absorbed by the mercury, the mercury will expand and begin to rise to a point that indicates the temperature of the object.
What is a maximum minimum thermometer?
A maximum-minimum thermometer is a thermometer that is used to measure the maximum temperature and minimum temperature of a place within a certain period of time. This thermometer was invented by James Six Bellani, so this thermometer is also called the Six Bellani thermometer.
What happens to mercury in a ball when the temperature rises?
The working principle is that when the temperature rises, the mercury in the ball will expand and force the narrow part so that it enters the scaled capillary tube.
What is a thermometer used for?
In general, a thermometer is a type of measuring instrument used to determine the temperature of a body and an object. In a sense, it is used to see how hot or how cold the body or the object is.
What unit does a wall thermometer use?
Wall thermometers are also expressed in Celsius and Fahrenheit units.
Why does mercury stay in place when temperature drops?
However, when the temperature drops, the position of the mercury remains in place. This is because there is a contraction that prevents the mercury from falling. To lower it to its original position, you need to turn it upside down firmly. After returning to its original place, it can be used to measure the temperature of another object.
How Does An Outdoor Thermometer Work?
Outdoor thermometers measure the temperature of a gas – the air. To do so, they need to be in a spot where gas molecules flow freely around them. Analog choices are liquid, like mercury or red alcohol, or digital.
How Do You Calibrate An Outdoor Thermometer?
Most digital and dial thermometers are factory calibrated, but they will need recalibration after a year or so. Be sure to check the specifications before you buy, though, because some models don’t come with a calibration feature.
How Do You Measure Outdoor Temperature?
If you are proud weather nerds, like us – the more weather information, the better. If you are considering a patio thermometer, read on before you buy.
What Is Ambient Temperature?
Before going any further, let's first get a clear idea of what exactly ambient temperature is.
What is a weather thermometer?
A weather thermometer is a meteorological instrument that measures the current air temperature in its immediate surroundings. The most well-known thermometer is the mercury or liquid-in-glass thermometer. The bimetal thermometer and more recently introduced digital thermometer are also widely used.
Why do you need a thermometer when cooking?
These thermometers are designed to be kept in the food while cooking to monitor the temperature throughout the whole process, whether inside or on top of the stove.
Why are thermistors used in weather stations?
Due to their accuracy, quick response time, and affordability, thermistors are used in the vast majority of home and professional weather stations.
How does mercury expand and contract?
As the temperature increases, the mercury starts to expand and push up in the narrow glass tube. Similarly, when the temperature decreases, the mercury contracts, and its level drops in the tube.
What is the instrument used to measure air temperature called?
The Different Types Of Thermometers And How They Measure Temperature. The instrument that is used to measure air temperature is called a thermometer. Depending on their method of measurement or what type of temperature they measure, these devices may be called something completely different.
What is a weather enclosure?
It is an enclosure of various sizes to house weather instrumentation. It protects the instruments from direct sunlight, rain, and solar radiation.
What Are the Types of Thermometers?
Depending on where you live, the common thermometer marking might be in Fahrenheit or in Celsius. Some thermometers will be marked in both, so it is a good idea to know which is which.
What Features Should I Look for When Shopping for a Digital Outdoor Thermometer?
Different models of digital outdoor thermometer offer a wide variety of functions. Some of the essential features to look for in your outdoor thermometer include:
How to read a dial thermometer?
Dial thermometers are easy to read. Like the liquid thermometers, they are often marked in both Fahrenheit and Celsius. Again, look at your thermometer carefully so that you know which is which. For example, one lovely brass thermometer has Fahrenheit marked as the outer ring of numbers, and Celsius as the inner ring. When you know which is which, it can help you to understand the relationship between the two.
How does a dial thermometer work?
Another thing to know about dial thermometers is that they operate through the use of a bimetal spring. Two different kinds of metal are welded together. These metals will expand or contract at different temperatures. This expansion or contraction will cause the metal to stretch out or to retract, and this action will change the location of the pointer on the dial.
How far does a digital thermometer travel?
The best digital outdoor thermometers have a transmission range between 200-500 feet from the central unit location.
How long does a wireless thermometer battery last?
Look for units with a minimum battery life of at least 12 months.
How accurate is a temperature thermometer?
Look for digital thermometers with an accuracy range of at least ±0.4F.
Why is tracking temperature important?
Tracking temperatures lets you plan your outdoor activities, take better care of a garden and yard, and dress for the weather. However, there are a few tricks to their use and setup.
What temperature should a thermometer be?
Then insert the thermometer’s probe into the water. It should reach 32 degrees Fahrenheit and 0 degrees Celsius. The boil-point method is your other option. However, there’s a risk of scalding, and the boiling point is affected by elevation, which can throw off the calibration.
How far away should a thermometer be from concrete?
Try to place the thermometer somewhere where the readings won’t be altered by landscaping, the sun, or the weather. For example, it should be at least 20 feet from concrete. Concrete reflects heat, causing the temperature to rise.
What is an outdoor thermometer?
At its most basic, an outdoor thermometer should provide an accurate reading of outdoor temperatures. However, many of today’s models offer much more. Some include several sensors that measure the temperature and humidity, along with memory features so you can track patterns in the environment around your home.
How accurate is the boiling point test?
The boiling point test isn’t quite as accurate because altitude and air pressure can alter the boiling point. But it works the same way. Boil a pot of water and place the thermometer’s probe in the water. Then, compare the readings to the known boiling point of your altitude.
What is the difference between an outdoor thermometer and a digital thermometer?
Analog outdoor thermometers may also look like a clock with a single hand that moves along the face to indicate the temperature. Digital thermometers offer a higher-tech option and provide more precise temperature readings. Digital displays may be backlit or colored to make them more visible.
How small is the Taylor thermometer?
This model offers large digits with the outdoor temperature reading prominently on top. However, the display unit is only 2.38 inches by 3.5 inches, small enough to put anywhere in the house.
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