Two different types of thermometer can give different readings when placed in the same environment - Leaving Cert Physics - Question e - 2021

Thermometers work based on different physical principles and materials, leading to variations in readings despite being in the same environmental conditions.

1. Material Composition: For instance, a mercury thermometer may respond to temperature changes differently than an alcohol thermometer. The expansion properties of the liquids inside these thermometers differ, resulting in varied readings for the same temperature.

2. Calibration: Different types of thermometers are calibrated using distinct reference points. For example, one may be calibrated based on the freezing and boiling points of water, while another may use different reference phases. This can lead to discrepancies in accuracy.

3. Sensitivity: Each type of thermometer has its own sensitivity range. Some thermometers are designed for specific temperature ranges, which can affect their readings if used outside of those ranges.

4. Response Time: The materials and design of the thermometer can also influence how quickly it responds to temperature changes. For instance, a digital thermometer may provide quicker readings than a traditional bulb thermometer, which could yield different values if the measurement is taken over a short period.

These differences illustrate why two thermometers can yield different readings in the same environment.