Fundamentals: Temperature

1 lab period; work in pairs. Complete the Preparation page before laboratory.

• To learn how to use and read a thermometer
• To discover the importance of quality control in experimentation
• To explore the relationship between the Celsium and Fahrenheit temperature scales.

In this experiment, you will develop and carry out an experimental procedure to determine the relationship between the Celsius and Fahrenheit temperature scales. Your goal is to answer the following questions.

Focus Questions

1. What data are required to delineate the relationship between the temperature scales?
2. What is the best way to use the data to obtain the relationship?
3. To obtain reliable and meaningful data in this or any other experiment, extensive Quality Control is necessary. List as many instances of quality control in your procedure as you can.
4. Describe in detail the process by which you derived the relationship between the Celsius and Fahrenheit scales from your data.

Equipment and Materials

• Celsius thermometer
• Fahrenheit thermometer
• Assorted glassware

Safety glasses must be worn at all times in the laboratory. You will use mercury thermometers. Mercury is an extremely toxic substance. Report thermometer breakage IMMEDIATELY to your instructor, who will take the necessary steps to clean up the mercury spill. Other safety matters depend on the design of your experimental procedure. The instructor will discuss safety with you once your procedure has been approved.

Experimental

Record all data in your notebook. Carry out your procedure in the laboratory, and develop the relationship between the Celsius and Fahrenheit temperature scales.

Clean-up. When you have finished all of your work:

• Clean all glassware with Alconox and water and shake dry.
• Rinse Pasteur pipets by inserting the nozzle of your wash bottle in the top end and squirting water through. Aspirate dry.
• Return all components to the labkit.
• Return all borrowed equipment to the instructor before leaving lab.

No disposal is required. In the event of thermometer breakage, notify the instructor, who will supervise the required disposal procedure. Do not attempt to clean up spilled mercury yourself.

1. This experiment.
2. The appropriate or assigned sections of your textbook.

Design an experimental procedure, based on the materials available, to explore the relationship between the Celsius and Fahrenheit temperature scales. Write out your procedure in detailed step-by-step fashion.