The Lower And Upper Fixed Points Of A Mercury-in-glass Thermometer Are Marked $y$ And 180 Mm, Respectively. On A Particular Day, The Mercury Column In The Thermometer Rises To 45 Mm. If The Corresponding Reading On A Celsius Scale Is
Introduction
A mercury-in-glass thermometer is a device used to measure temperature. It consists of a sealed glass tube filled with mercury, a liquid metal that expands and contracts with changes in temperature. The thermometer has two fixed points, marked as $y$ and 180 mm, which are used as reference points to determine the temperature. In this article, we will discuss how to use the lower and upper fixed points of a mercury-in-glass thermometer to determine the corresponding reading on a Celsius scale.
Understanding the Fixed Points
The lower fixed point, marked as $y$, is the temperature at which the mercury column in the thermometer is at its lowest level. This point is usually marked as 0°C on the Celsius scale. The upper fixed point, marked as 180 mm, is the temperature at which the mercury column is at its highest level. This point is usually marked as 100°C on the Celsius scale.
The Relationship Between the Mercury Column and Temperature
The relationship between the mercury column and temperature is linear. This means that for every 1 mm rise in the mercury column, the temperature increases by a certain amount. To determine the corresponding reading on a Celsius scale, we need to know the temperature difference between the upper and lower fixed points.
Calculating the Temperature Difference
The temperature difference between the upper and lower fixed points is 100°C - 0°C = 100°C. Since the upper fixed point is marked as 180 mm, we can calculate the temperature difference per mm as follows:
100°C / 180 mm = 0.5556°C/mm
Determining the Corresponding Reading on a Celsius Scale
On a particular day, the mercury column in the thermometer rises to 45 mm. To determine the corresponding reading on a Celsius scale, we need to multiply the height of the mercury column by the temperature difference per mm:
45 mm x 0.5556°C/mm = 25.05°C
Conclusion
In conclusion, the lower and upper fixed points of a mercury-in-glass thermometer can be used to determine the corresponding reading on a Celsius scale. By understanding the relationship between the mercury column and temperature, we can calculate the temperature difference per mm and use it to determine the temperature. In this article, we have discussed how to use the lower and upper fixed points of a mercury-in-glass thermometer to determine the corresponding reading on a Celsius scale.
The Importance of Mercury-in-Glass Thermometers
Mercury-in-glass thermometers are still widely used today due to their accuracy and reliability. They are commonly used in laboratories, medical facilities, and other industries where precise temperature measurements are required. However, it's worth noting that mercury is a toxic substance and can be hazardous to human health and the environment. As a result, many countries have banned the use of mercury-in-glass thermometers in certain applications.
The Future of Thermometry
With the advancement of technology, new types of thermometers have been developed that are more accurate and reliable than mercury-in-glass thermometers. These include digital thermometers, infrared thermometers, and thermocouple thermometers. While mercury-in-glass thermometers are still widely used, they are gradually being replaced by newer technologies.
Applications of Mercury-in-Glass Thermometers
Mercury-in-glass thermometers have a wide range of applications, including:
- Laboratories: Mercury-in-glass thermometers are commonly used in laboratories to measure temperature in various experiments and reactions.
- Medical facilities: Mercury-in-glass thermometers are used to measure body temperature in medical facilities.
- Industrial applications: Mercury-in-glass thermometers are used to measure temperature in various industrial processes, such as in the production of chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
- Weather forecasting: Mercury-in-glass thermometers are used to measure temperature in weather forecasting.
Conclusion
Q: What is a mercury-in-glass thermometer?
A: A mercury-in-glass thermometer is a device used to measure temperature. It consists of a sealed glass tube filled with mercury, a liquid metal that expands and contracts with changes in temperature.
Q: How does a mercury-in-glass thermometer work?
A: A mercury-in-glass thermometer works by using the expansion and contraction of mercury to measure temperature. As the temperature increases, the mercury column rises, and as the temperature decreases, the mercury column falls.
Q: What are the advantages of using a mercury-in-glass thermometer?
A: The advantages of using a mercury-in-glass thermometer include:
- Accuracy: Mercury-in-glass thermometers are highly accurate and can measure temperature with a high degree of precision.
- Reliability: Mercury-in-glass thermometers are reliable and can withstand a wide range of temperatures.
- Durability: Mercury-in-glass thermometers are durable and can last for a long time with proper care.
Q: What are the disadvantages of using a mercury-in-glass thermometer?
A: The disadvantages of using a mercury-in-glass thermometer include:
- Toxicity: Mercury is a toxic substance and can be hazardous to human health and the environment.
- Breakage: Mercury-in-glass thermometers can break if dropped or subjected to sudden changes in temperature.
- Limited range: Mercury-in-glass thermometers have a limited range of temperatures that they can measure.
Q: How do I use a mercury-in-glass thermometer?
A: To use a mercury-in-glass thermometer, follow these steps:
- Place the thermometer in the desired location: Place the thermometer in the location where you want to measure temperature.
- Allow the thermometer to stabilize: Allow the thermometer to stabilize for a few minutes to ensure accurate readings.
- Read the temperature: Read the temperature on the thermometer by looking at the height of the mercury column.
Q: How do I calibrate a mercury-in-glass thermometer?
A: To calibrate a mercury-in-glass thermometer, follow these steps:
- Place the thermometer in a known temperature: Place the thermometer in a known temperature, such as an ice bath or a boiling water bath.
- Allow the thermometer to stabilize: Allow the thermometer to stabilize for a few minutes to ensure accurate readings.
- Adjust the thermometer: Adjust the thermometer to match the known temperature.
Q: Can I use a mercury-in-glass thermometer in extreme temperatures?
A: No, you should not use a mercury-in-glass thermometer in extreme temperatures. Mercury-in-glass thermometers are designed to measure temperature in a specific range, and using them in extreme temperatures can cause damage or inaccurate readings.
Q: How do I store a mercury-in-glass thermometer?
A: To store a mercury-in-glass thermometer, follow these steps:
- Place the thermometer in a protective case: Place the thermometer in a protective case to prevent breakage.
- Store the thermometer in a cool, dry place: Store the thermometer in a cool, dry place to prevent damage.
- Avoid exposing the thermometer to extreme temperatures: Avoid exposing the thermometer to extreme temperatures to prevent damage.
Q: Can I use a mercury-in-glass thermometer in a laboratory setting?
A: Yes, you can use a mercury-in-glass thermometer in a laboratory setting. Mercury-in-glass thermometers are commonly used in laboratories to measure temperature in various experiments and reactions.
Q: Can I use a mercury-in-glass thermometer in a medical setting?
A: Yes, you can use a mercury-in-glass thermometer in a medical setting. Mercury-in-glass thermometers are commonly used in medical facilities to measure body temperature.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mercury-in-glass thermometers are a widely used device for measuring temperature. They are accurate, reliable, and durable, but they also have some disadvantages, such as toxicity and limited range. By following the proper usage and storage instructions, you can ensure accurate and reliable readings from your mercury-in-glass thermometer.