Answer:
I would say that the figurative language is an allusion because they are saying that something is something else, the meaning of this would probably be that people saw this so called thermometer as a small thing that wasnt anything THAT important, but really it was something huge or "bigger" than it seemed. the authors tone seems inspiring and in awe, the author creates a mood of understanding, and wanting people to understand. this exerpt has the effect of wanting to learn more and curiosity because they are curious as to the deeper meaning of this exerpt
Step-by-step explanation:
hope this helps