Question

How does a mercury thermometer work?

Answer 1

1. When the bulb of the thermometer is brought in contact with the substance whose temperature is to be measured, there is an exchange of heat between the substance and the mercury in the bulb.

2. The mercury expands or contracts depending upon whether it gains heat or loses heat. Accordingly there is a rise or fall of the level of mercury in the tube of the thermometer indicating the temperature of the substance when the mercury and the substance are in thermal equilibrium.