Galileo Thermometer Accuracy Information
Some would say that temperature is a relative term. Actually, hot and cold are relative terms, but temperature readings are pretty accurate given today's advances in meteorology. During the 16th century, however, temperature was a relative term until Galileo invented a thermometer.
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History
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The Galileo thermometer operates on the principle of buoyancy. Readings of temperature variations were nonexistent until 1593, when Galileo Galilei invented a way to gauge such readings. The theory behind the design was that as temperature changes, liquid density changes, thereby creating a fluctuation in buoyancy.
Design
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A sealed tube filled with water containing several blown glass bubbles with weights attached to them make up a Galileo thermometer. The bubbles are partially filled with a liquid, typically of differing colors for contrast. Each weight indicates a unit of temperature measurement.
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Calibration
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Both the glass bubbles and weights need to be properly calibrated. To ensure the accuracy of the thermometer, each of the bubbles has to be calibrated the same, thereby allowing them to be purely ornamental. In addition, the weights themselves need proper calibration.
How It Works
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Buoyancy ensures accurate temperature readings. The Galileo thermometer utilizes the property of buoyancy. When temperature increases, water density decreases; therefore, the bubbles with higher density (lower temperature) sink, and those with lower density (higher temperature) float.
Accuracy
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Accuracy depends upon the placement of the device. Although you may not get a specific measurement of temperature, that is to say the exact degree, you will get a general indication of temperature. In addition, the placement of a Galileo thermometer is very important, as it reads the temperature that immediately surrounds the device.
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References
Resources
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