How Thermometers Work

If you’re like most people, you probably have a thermometer in your home that you use to check your temperature when you’re feeling ill. But have you ever wondered how thermometers work?

Thermometers are devices that measure temperature. There are many different types of thermometers, but they all work by measuring the amount of heat energy in a substance.

The most common type of thermometer is the mercury thermometer. Mercury is a metal that expands when it is heated. So, when mercury is heated, it expands and rises up the thermometer. The higher the mercury rises, the higher the temperature. Mercury thermometers are very accurate, but they are also very dangerous. If a mercury thermometer breaks, the mercury can be poisonous.

Digital thermometers are becoming more popular because they are safe and easy to use. Digital thermometers measure the temperature with an electronic sensor. The sensor converts the heat energy into an electrical signal. The signal is then displayed on a digital readout. Digital thermometers are higher value than mercury thermometers, and are also much safer.

Thermometers are important tools that help us to measure temperature. The next time you use a thermometer, think about how it works and how it helps us to stay healthy!