Final answer:
An infrared (laser) thermometer is designed to measure surface temperature by detecting the emitted infrared radiation from an object's surface. It offers a non-contact means of temperature measurement, making it useful for medical applications and industrial equipment diagnostics.
Step-by-step explanation:
These devices use infrared technology to detect thermal radiation emitted from an object and provide a temperature readout, essential for various applications without making physical contact. This makes them particularly useful in situations where conventional thermometers that require contact are impractical or unsafe to use.
Infrared thermometers are versatile tools employed in a wide range of settings, from industrial diagnostics to medical applications. For instance, they can be used for measuring the surface temperature of machinery or electronic equipment to detect overheating issues. In medical settings, infrared thermometers, often referred to as tympanic or ear thermometers, are used to measure body temperature by placing the device in the ear canal, providing a quick and accurate reading. This method of temperature measurement is more accurate and less invasive than the traditional alcohol thermometers placed under the tongue or in the armpit.
Temperature measurement with such devices involves analyzing the infrared radiation emitted; this radiation increases with temperature. The data obtained is related to the object's surface temperature and displayed on a digital screen, facilitating immediate analysis. It's crucial to note that while infrared thermometers measure surface temperature, they cannot measure internal temperatures or the ambient temperatures of liquids or air.