#What is a clinical thermometer?

Full Answer

Maximum-minimum thermometers are typically U-shaped parallel tubes of glass. One side registers the minimum temperature, while the other registers the maximum temperature since its last reading. The bend at the bottom of the thermometer contains the liquid mercury, which moves up and down based on contractions of the oil or alcohol located in the two bulbs at the top of the thermometer. The contractions of the alcohol or oil are the result of thermal changes in the environment causing it to expand or contract.

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How is a thermometer calibrated?

How do thermistors work?

Thermistors measure temperature as a function of change in potential difference at constant current or a change in current at constant temperature. These temperature sensors are constructed of semiconductor materials, and their resistance is either a direct or inverse function of temperature.

How does thermal energy work?

Thermal energy is used to describe energy in a heated form. Thermal energy is transferred in three different ways: radiation, conduction and convection.

How does conduction work?