Factors affecting range, sensitivity and responsiveness

of a liquid-in-glass thermometer

Change made to Change in Range Change in Change in

thermometer Sensitivity Responsiveness
Increase size of bulb Shorter range More sensitive Less responsive
(reach a lower maximum (longer response time)
temperature)
Increase diameter of Longer range Less sensitive No change
capillary bore
Increase length of Longer range No change No change
stem
Use thicker glass for No change No change Less responsive
the bulb

Mr Ang
22 Jun 2011