Question

Mercury thermometers are used to measure temperatures up to:
A) \[{100^o}C\]
B) \[{212^o}C\]
C) \[{360^o}C\]
D) \[{500^o}C\]

Answer 1

Hint: Mercury is used for measuring temperature as it can measure temperature over a wide range of values. The minimum temperature measured by it is \[ - {37^o}C\]. The upper limit of measurement corresponds to \[{673^o}F\].

Complete step by step solution:
Mercury thermometers are used in measurement because Mercury is the only metal that is in liquid state at room temperature.
Moreover, we know Mercury also has a high coefficient of expansion, as a result of which, it can indicate even small changes in temperature.
We have seen that mercury has a shiny coloured texture that can be easily visible to our eyes.
Mercury also does not stick to the glass surface, this factor helps the liquid to slide over and indicate temperature changes.
Another important factor, as a result of which mercury is used in thermometers is that it can measure temperatures over a wide range. The lower limit being \[ - {37^o}C\] and the upper limit being \[{357^o}C\] .
Thus in our question, a mercury thermometer can be used to measure temperature up to \[{360^o}C\] be correct.

Therefore, option (C ) is correct.

Note: Mercury has high boiling point, therefore, mercury thermometers can be used to measure high temperatures. The range of a mercury thermometer can be increased by adding an inert gas to it such as nitrogen to it. Adding an inert gas increases the pressure on mercury as a result of which its boiling point increases. Hence it can be used to measure further higher values. The range of the thermometer can also be increased by increasing the diameter of the capillary tube.