Buzz
What is a Thermometer?
Thermometer combines two Greek words: 'thermo' (temperature) and 'meter' (measurement). It is a device used to measure temperature in a specific environment or on a living object, such as humans...
With different operating principles depending on the type of thermometer, like alcohol thermometers, infrared thermometers, electronic thermometers,... The most common on the market is the mercury thermometer.
Though there are many types, the fundamental structure of a thermometer consists of two main parts: the display part showing the measured results and the temperature sensor part used for temperature measurement.
Applications of Thermometers
We are all well aware of the primary function of thermometers, which is to measure temperature. Additionally, they serve various aspects of human life, from households to healthcare institutions, and industries such as:
- Measuring the temperature of devices to calculate their technical specifications.
- Checking the operation status of machinery in workshops and factories.
- Identifying the temperature in the air and rooms to provide suitable temperature for users.
- Inspecting food quality.
- Detecting humidity, leaks in large construction sites under construction or completed.
- Used in laboratories, storage rooms, and experiments requiring temperature-related parameters.
- Checking body temperature in healthcare facilities.
The above are just some prominent applications of this tool. There are many other benefits it brings to our lives. Therefore, choose the type of thermometer that suits your purpose to achieve the most accurate results. If you have a young family member, this is undoubtedly a necessary medical tool that you must equip.
Common Types of Thermometers
In the current market, there are 3 types of thermometers that are quite popular. Let's explore the functions of each type right here with Mytour!
Mercury Thermometer
Considered the most familiar type and present in the majority of Vietnamese households. It operates based on the principle of expansion when exposed to increasing temperatures of mercury to measure body temperature.
Invented long ago but still widely used today. It has a structure consisting of three parts: temperature sensor, capillary tube, and display of measured results.
Electronic Thermometer
Functions based on advanced infrared heat sensing, applied to measure body temperature. Nowadays, this is the type of device recommended by experts due to its extremely high accuracy and rapid display of results.
Its structure also has three parts: a temperature sensor, an LCD for displaying results, and a power button. The usage is similar to a mercury thermometer but brings superior benefits, making it popular among people.
Mercury-containing devices make users worry about toxicity if broken. However, electronic thermometers address this inconvenience. Providing results within 7 seconds, they are convenient and suitable for all environments.
Infrared Thermometer
Considered the most advanced type among the common ones today, infrared thermometers allow us to measure temperature without touching the person or object to be measured. Operating based on the principle of measuring infrared radiation emitted by body heat.
With a design similar to electronic thermometers but with an integrated heat sensor to detect body waves. This sensor can recognize objects with temperatures as low as -273°C. Thus, it can measure most necessary objects, including humans.
However, quality comes with a relatively high cost. Additionally, environmental factors such as fans and air conditioning can affect the accuracy of the measurements.
How to Choose a Thermometer
Each type of thermometer will have different functions, depending on the user's needs. Here is how to choose and the standards to follow when using:
For
mercury thermometers, pay attention to factors such as:
- High durability.
- Before purchasing, carefully check the product's condition to avoid buying poor-quality or damaged ones.
- Check if the temperature scale is clear, as it helps us know our body temperature accurately.
Mercury thermometers are favored for their high durability.As for
electronic and infrared thermometers, the buying process becomes a bit more complex. We need to consider:
- Measurement accuracy; conduct a few test measurements to determine this factor. Typically, the margin of error fluctuates around 0.2 - 0.3°C only.
- Memory capacity, which varies depending on the price. Consider your purpose and choose a suitable type.
- Easy-to-observe display screen for measurement results.
- Battery life.
- Warranty policy and additional features.
So, Mytour has guided you through useful information about thermometers, right? This is an essential tool for family health care. Hopefully, after this article, you can choose the right device for your intended use.
