Question

If mercury and glass had equal coefficients of volume expansion, could we make a mercury thermometer in a glass tube?

Answer 1

Yes, a mercury thermometer can be made in a glass tube.

Explanation:

• The coefficients of the volume expansion of mercury and glass are equal.

• Hence, the increase in the volume of the glass tube when the temperature changes would be zero, as it is equal to the real increase in the volume minus the increase in the volume of the container.

• Hence, at every temperature given, it will provide correct reading.