How to make your own thermometer
The method of making your own thermometer is as follows:
1. Material preparation: a thin glass tube, which will be the main body of the thermometer. You can buy it at a chemical supplier or laboratory supply store Some alcohol is used in the liquid that fills the thermometer; alcohol is a relatively safe choice because it is not as toxic as mercury.
2. Make sure you have the following materials ready: food coloring or food dye this is used to color alcoholic liquids to make it easier to read the temperature; glue to seal the top of the thermometer; a small piece of thin film Or plastic wrap to cover the top of the thermometer; a small bottle to hold the thermometer to prevent leakage of liquid.
3. Preparation for making a thermometer glass tube: Use a cutting tool (such as a glass tube cutter) to cut the thin glass tube into the required length, usually 10-15 cm. Gently heat one end of the tube with a lighter or alcohol lamp, and then seal it with a hammer or other hard object. This will become the base of the thermometer.
4. Fill the liquid: Use a dropper or eyedropper to slowly inject alcohol into the closed glass tube until the bottom of the tube is filled with alcohol. To make the thermometer easier to read, add a drop or two of food coloring or dye to tint the alcohol. During the filling process, make sure no air bubbles get inside the thermometer.
5. Seal the thermometer. Use glue to seal the other end of the thermometer. Make sure the seal is secure to prevent liquid leakage. Make sure that both ends of the thermometer's glass tube are sealed so that liquid cannot escape.
6. Add a scale: Set the thermometer aside and let it cool to room temperature. Using the scale tool, engrave the temperature markings on the side of the thermometer according to your needs. You can label based on the Celsius or Fahrenheit temperature scale.
7. Test the thermometer and package the thermometer: Place the thermometer at room temperature and wait a few minutes for it to reach equilibrium. Use another reliable thermometer to check the accuracy of your homemade thermometer. Place the thermometer in a small bottle to better protect it. Use thin film or plastic wrap to cover the top of the vial to prevent liquid from leaking.
8. Use and maintenance: To ensure accuracy, always wait for the thermometer to balance before measuring the temperature. Do not expose the thermometer to extreme temperatures as this may damage it. Check the thermometer's accuracy regularly and recalibrate it as needed. Handle the thermometer carefully and avoid bumping or dropping it to prevent the glass from breaking. The thermometer is flammable if it leaks.
Uses of thermometers
1. Medical purposes: Thermometers are used to measure the body temperature, which is very important in medical diagnosis. Doctors and nurses use oral, armpit, ear, or forehead thermometers to check patients' temperatures to help diagnose disease and monitor health conditions.
2. Meteorology and weather forecasting: Meteorologists use thermometers to measure the temperature in the atmosphere to monitor weather changes, predict weather and prepare weather reports. Temperature data are also critical for climate research and disaster warnings.
3. Cooking and food safety: Chefs and food handlers use thermometers to ensure that food is cooked to a safe temperature to kill bacteria and maintain food quality. For example, meat needs to reach a certain internal temperature during cooking to ensure food safety.
4. Laboratory and scientific research: Thermometers are widely used in laboratories to measure the temperature in experiments. Scientists and researchers rely on thermometers to explore the properties and reactions of substances.
5. Manufacturing and industrial applications: Temperature control is crucial in many industrial processes, such as metal smelting, chemical production and pharmaceuticals. Thermometers are used to monitor and control the temperature of these processes to ensure product quality and safety.
6. Energy production: Thermometers are used to monitor and control energy production processes, such as power plants, nuclear reactors and oil drilling. They help maintain the proper operation and safety of your equipment.