Question

Mercury is used in thermometers to measure the temperature because:

• A. It is the only metal that is liquid at room temperature.
• B. It expands or contracts with temperature.
• C. It changes state with change in temperature.
• D. Mercury does not stick to glass walls.

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (B), (D)

The correct options are
A It is the only metal that is liquid at room temperature.
B

It expands or contracts with temperature.

D Mercury does not stick to glass walls.

Mercury is a good conductor of heat and remains liquid at room temperature and can flow. So, as the temperature of mercury increases, there is a expansion in the length of mercury column. Also, it is easily visible and does not stick on the walls of test-tube. So, multiple readings can be taken in a short interval of time.