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How can the sensitivity of a thermometer be enhanced?

User Anxhela
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Answer:

Select a thermometer with a smaller-scale division: A thermometer with a smaller interval between temperature markings on its scale can provide more precise readings. This allows for better differentiation of slight temperature variations.

Decrease the bulb size: The bulb of a thermometer is the part that contains the temperature-sensitive material, such as mercury or alcohol. Reducing the size of the bulb decreases the thermal mass and allows for quicker response to temperature changes.

Improve thermal conductivity: Enhancing the thermal conductivity of the material used in the thermometer can help transmit heat more effectively. This enables faster equilibration between the measured object and the thermometer, resulting in improved sensitivity.

Enhance insulation: By improving the insulation around the temperature-sensitive material, heat loss or gain from the surroundings can be minimized. This helps maintain a more accurate reading and reduces errors due to external temperature influences.

Minimize parallax errors: Parallax errors occur when the observer's line of sight is not directly perpendicular to the thermometer scale. This can lead to inaccurate readings. Minimizing parallax errors, such as by using a magnifying lens or aligning the thermometer properly, can improve sensitivity.

User Jamie Hartnoll
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