Question

How should one measure the temperature of a liquid with a laboratory thermometer?

• A. By touching the thermometer to the base of the container
• B. By touching the thermometer to the sides of the container
• C. By placing the thermometer in the liquid such that it does not touch the base or the side of the container
• D. By placing the thermometer above the surface of the container

Answer 1

The correct option is C

By placing the thermometer in the liquid such that it does not touch the base or the side of the container

As a kink is not present in laboratory thermometers, the reading should be taken when the thermometer is still immersed in the liquid. The thermometer should not touch the sides or the base of the container as the container may not have the same temperature as the solution. Thus, having the thermometer touch the container may give an inaccurate reading.