It is used to measure body temperature. It has a kink in it which prevents backfall of the mercury present in the thermometer. It 's range is 35 celcius to 42 celcius.

Temperature and its Measurement

Introduction:
Temperature is a fundamental concept in physics and plays a crucial role in various fields, including clinical science. It is a measure of the hotness or coldness of an object or a system. The measurement of temperature helps in understanding the thermal behavior of substances and is essential for diagnostic purposes in healthcare.

What is Temperature?
Temperature can be defined as the average kinetic energy of the particles in a substance. It determines the direction of heat flow, with heat transferring from objects at higher temperatures to those at lower temperatures.

Measurement of Temperature:
There are various scales used to measure temperature, including Celsius (°C), Fahrenheit (°F), and Kelvin (K). Each scale has its own reference points and units of measurement.

Celsius Scale (°C):
The Celsius scale is commonly used for everyday temperature measurements. It has two fixed reference points: 0°C, which represents the freezing point of water, and 100°C, which represents the boiling point of water at standard atmospheric pressure.

Fahrenheit Scale (°F):
The Fahrenheit scale is primarily used in the United States. Its reference points are 32°F for the freezing point of water and 212°F for the boiling point of water at standard atmospheric pressure.

Kelvin Scale (K):
The Kelvin scale is an absolute temperature scale commonly used in scientific and engineering applications. It starts from absolute zero, which is the point at which all molecular motion ceases. The Kelvin scale is related to the Celsius scale by the equation: Kelvin = Celsius + 273.15.

Methods of Temperature Measurement:
Temperature can be measured using various instruments, including thermometers and thermocouples. These devices utilize different principles to determine temperature accurately.

Mercury-in-Glass Thermometer:
This traditional thermometer consists of a glass tube filled with mercury. As temperature changes, the mercury expands or contracts, causing it to rise or fall inside the tube. The temperature is read by observing the position of the mercury column against a calibrated scale.

Digital Thermometer:
Digital thermometers use electronic sensors to measure temperature. They provide quick and accurate readings, often displaying the temperature digitally on a screen. Digital thermometers are commonly used in clinical settings due to their ease of use and reliability.

Infrared Thermometer:
Infrared thermometers measure temperature by detecting and capturing the infrared radiation emitted by an object. They are non-contact devices that can measure temperature from a distance. Infrared thermometers are widely used in clinical settings as they minimize the risk of cross-contamination.

Conclusion:
Temperature is a critical parameter in clinical science, aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of various medical conditions. By understanding the principles of temperature measurement and utilizing appropriate instruments, healthcare professionals can accurately assess body temperature and make informed clinical decisions.