AP Physics-Temperature and Heat

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When a mercury-in-glass thermometer is placed in boiling water, the initial drop in the mercury column can be attributed to the thermal expansion of the glass, which momentarily contracts the mercury before it begins to expand. Heat transfer occurs primarily through conduction from the glass to the mercury, causing the mercury to eventually rise as it absorbs heat. The phenomenon illustrates the principles of thermal conductivity and the response of materials to temperature changes. Concerns about similar conceptual questions appearing on the AP exam are noted, with past experiences indicating such questions are rare. Understanding these concepts is crucial for grasping the behavior of thermometers in varying temperatures.
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I have a concept question that asks, "When the bulb of a mercury-in-glass thermometer is inserted into boiling water, the mercury column first drops slightly before it begins to rise. Account for this phenomenon." I have no idea why. Any ideas?
 
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salemchic05 said:
I have a concept question that asks, "When the bulb of a mercury-in-glass thermometer is inserted into boiling water, the mercury column first drops slightly before it begins to rise. Account for this phenomenon." I have no idea why. Any ideas?
How does the heat get to the mercury in the bulb? (ie. there are only three ways to transfer heat: convection, radiation or conduction). So what does the heat do to the glass?

AM
 
salemchic05 said:
I have a concept question that asks, "When the bulb of a mercury-in-glass thermometer is inserted into boiling water, the mercury column first drops slightly before it begins to rise. Account for this phenomenon." I have no idea why. Any ideas?

well, the good news is that there will probably not be any questions of that sort will NOT be on the ap exam. before i took mine last may, i did about four or so old exams. not once was there a conceptual problem in thermo of that nature. (...and I'm not sure if there were any conceptual problems in thermo at all. don't remember any.)
 

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