Helphow does a clinical thermometre differs from a laboratory thermoeter?

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In summary, a clinical thermometer differs from a laboratory thermometer in several ways. First, it has a narrow constriction in the tube above the bulb, allowing for the mercury to be trapped at the temperature it was placed in. Second, it has a shorter range of 35C to 42C, while a laboratory thermometer can measure up to 100C or 120C. Lastly, the cross-sectional shape of a clinical thermometer is pear-shaped, acting as a magnifying glass for easier reading, while a laboratory thermometer does not have this feature.
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Dark Angel
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Help..pleasez. how does a clinical thermometre differs from a laboratory thermoeter?

hey. anyone could help me in listing ways in which clinical thermometer differs from laboratory thermometer? with explanation for each difference?

thanx everyone for ur help.
 
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How about you start by giving us some of your thoughts on the question?
 
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1. A clinical thermometer has a narrow constriction in the tube just above the bulb. The expanding mercury pushes its way past the constriction when the thermometer is placed in the mouth.
When the thermometer is taken out of the mouth the mecury does not immediately fall back to the bulb. The mecury is trapped at the temperature of the body it was placed in. This allows for the temperature to be read after it has been taken out of the mouth. The only way to return all the mecury to the bulb is to flick it back and forth.
A normal thermometer (a lab thermometer) does not have this constriction

2. A clinical thermometer has a much shorter range than a lab thermometer. A clinical has a range of 35C to 42C (about the range for body temp.) but a lab has a range to about 100C or 120C

3. The cross sectional shape of the tube is a pear shape. It acts as a magnifying glass so that it is easier to see the fine thread of mercury in the fine tube. A lab thermometer doesn't have this pear shape (not that I know of).

Jeremy
 
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1. What is the main purpose of a clinical thermometer?

A clinical thermometer is used to measure the body temperature of a person. It is commonly used in medical settings such as clinics, hospitals, and homes.

2. How does a clinical thermometer differ from a laboratory thermometer?

A clinical thermometer is specifically designed to measure the body temperature of a person, while a laboratory thermometer is used to measure the temperature of substances and materials in a laboratory setting. Additionally, a clinical thermometer typically has a narrower temperature range compared to a laboratory thermometer.

3. What are the units of measurement used in a clinical thermometer?

The most commonly used units of measurement in a clinical thermometer are degrees Celsius (°C) and Fahrenheit (°F).

4. Can a clinical thermometer be used for other purposes?

No, a clinical thermometer is only suitable for measuring body temperature and should not be used for any other purposes. It is calibrated specifically for this purpose and may not provide accurate measurements for other substances or materials.

5. How do you properly use a clinical thermometer?

To use a clinical thermometer, shake it gently to bring the mercury level below 35°C. Place it under the tongue, armpit, or rectum for the recommended amount of time (usually 3 minutes for oral and rectal measurements, and 5 minutes for axillary measurements). After use, clean the thermometer with lukewarm water and soap, and store it in a clean and dry place.

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