alcohol and mercury thermometers- why are they different? and when and where are they used?
Both of these thermometers were designed to rise and fall as they expand or contract with changes in temperature. One major difference is that alcohol thermometers will only rise when on site with the temperature to be read, where as a mercury thermometer needs to be shaken if you want to take another reading. The mercury will generally stay risen, as opposed to the alcohol which will imediatly drop when the temperature source is removed. Many doctor clinics will use mercury thermometer, where a Laboratory will use alcohol.
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Alcohol thermometers and mercury thermometers are different in terms of the liquid used to measure temperature, as well as their characteristics and applications. Let's discuss each type in more detail:
1. Alcohol Thermometers: These thermometers use a colored alcohol solution, usually ethanol or a mixture of ethanol and dye, as the measuring fluid. Alcohol thermometers have the following features and applications:
- Safety: Alcohol is non-toxic and less harmful to humans compared to mercury, making these thermometers generally safer to use.
- Temperature Range: Alcohol thermometers typically measure temperatures ranging from -115°C to +78°C (-175°F to +172°F).
- Applications: Alcohol thermometers are commonly used in medical settings, especially for oral and armpit temperature measurements. They are also used in food processing, chemical laboratories, and home applications.
2. Mercury Thermometers: These thermometers use liquid mercury as the measuring fluid. Mercury thermometers have the following features and applications:
- High Thermal Conductivity: Mercury has high thermal conductivity, enabling quick and accurate temperature readings.
- Temperature Range: Mercury thermometers can measure temperatures ranging from -38°C to +356°C (-36°F to +673°F).
- Fragility and Toxicity: Mercury is hazardous to health and the environment. Accidental breakage or improper disposal of mercury thermometers can release toxic mercury vapors, making their use less desirable.
- Applications: Mercury thermometers were widely used in various fields, including medical, scientific research, industrial, and household settings in the past. However, due to health and environmental concerns, their use has been restricted or replaced with safer alternatives in many regions.
It's important to note that the use of mercury thermometers is being phased out in many countries due to their potential harm. In some applications, digital thermometers or alcohol-filled alternatives are now being used instead. Always check specific regulations and guidelines regarding thermometer usage in your region to ensure compliance with safety and environmental requirements.