Difference between alcohol thermometer and mercury thermometer

Last update: 15/05/2023
Author Sebastian Vidal

Introduction

Thermometers are very useful tools for measure temperature of different substances, but there are different types of thermometers with specific characteristics. In this article we are going to talk about the difference between alcohol thermometers and mercury thermometers.

alcohol thermometer

Alcohol thermometer is a type of thermometer that uses alcohol as a temperature fluid. This type of thermometer has several advantages. First of all, alcohol has a much lower freezing point than mercury, which means that can be used to measure lower temperatures. Additionally, alcohol is less toxic than mercury, making it a safer option in case the thermometer breaks.

On the other hand, the alcohol thermometer is less accurate than the mercury thermometer due to its coefficient of thermal expansion, which is greater than that of mercury. This means that changes in temperature produce a larger volume change in alcohol than mercury, which can make measurement difficult. Additionally, alcohol is more sensitive to expansion and evaporation than mercury, making it less stable over time.

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Mercury thermometer

The mercury thermometer is another type of thermometer that uses mercury as a temperature fluid. Unlike alcohol, mercury has a very low freezing point, making it ideal for measuring very low temperatures. Additionally, at high temperatures, mercury is more precise than alcohol due to its lower coefficient of thermal expansion.

On the other hand, mercury is a highly toxic substance, which means that its use is increasingly restricted throughout the world. Furthermore, if the thermometer breaks, mercury can generate toxic vapors that are dangerous. to health and the the environment.

Conclusion

Each type of thermometer has its advantages and disadvantages, but in general it can be said that alcohol thermometers are safer and easier to handle, while mercury thermometers are more precise but also more dangerous. In any case, it is important to use the appropriate thermometers for each situation and, in case of breakage, follow appropriate safety measures to avoid exposure to mercury.

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Always remember to use thermometers responsibly and safely!