Is a calibrated thermometer more precise than one that has not been calibrated? What implications does this have for measuring temperature changes as contrasted with measuring individual temperatures?
If you want to know the temperature than a calibrated thermometer will give that to you and one that has not been calibrated will not. However, if you are interested only in the DIFFERENCE in temperatures, then it doesn't matter. WHY? Let's take an example.
With a calibrated thermometer:
Final reading = 31.0 C
initial reading = 25.0 C
difference = 6.0 degrees C.
With an uncalibrated thermometer that reads too high by 5 degrees C:
final reading = 36.0 C
initial reading = 30.0 C
difference = 6.0 C.
So it makes a huge difference (5.0C) if we want to know the exact temperature because we would read 31.0 as the correct T but the "bad" thermometer would tell us 36.0 C. Big difference. But if we want to know the difference in two temperatures, both thermometers give the same result.
what role does barometric pressure play in the boiling point of water?
Yes, a calibrated thermometer is generally more precise than one that has not been calibrated. Calibration is the process of comparing the measurements of a device (such as a thermometer) with a known accurate standard to ensure its accuracy and reliability. When a thermometer is calibrated, any systematic errors or inaccuracies are identified and corrected.
Implications for measuring temperature changes:
When measuring temperature changes, the precision of the thermometer becomes crucial. A calibrated thermometer provides a reliable and consistent reference point for temperature measurements. It ensures that the observed changes in temperature accurately reflect the actual changes occurring in the environment. This is important for applications such as scientific experiments, medical diagnostics, or industrial processes where precise temperature monitoring is essential.
Implications for measuring individual temperatures:
When measuring individual temperatures at specific points in time, precision is also important, but it may not be as critical as it is for temperature changes. A calibrated thermometer ensures that the individual temperature measurements are accurate and consistent. It allows for reliable comparisons and analysis across different measurements or locations. However, in some cases, a non-calibrated thermometer may still provide sufficient accuracy for basic temperature readings, as long as it is consistent in its measurements.
In summary, using a calibrated thermometer for both temperature changes and individual temperature measurements is preferable to ensure high precision and accuracy in the obtained results.