Galileo Thermometer Instructions
History
In conducting one of his many important experiments, Italian astronomer and physicist,
Galileo Galilei (1564-1642) observed that the density of liquid changes -- expands and
contracts – with temperature variation. This discovery led to the creation of the Galileo
Thermometer, a fascinating method of searching for exact temperature measurements.
How It Works
The Galileo Thermometer is made up of a glass cylinder filled with a special liquid.
Inside the cylinder are liquid-filled glass spheres each with an imprinted designated
temperature reading medallion that are actually calibrated counterweights. As the density
of the liquid in the cylinder changes with rising and falling temperatures, the spheres rise
or sink in relation to those changes, indicating current atmospheric temperature levels.
When the temperature rises, the liquid in the cylinder becomes less dense and the spheres
sink slowly to the bottom. When the temperature falls, the opposite occurs, and the liquid
in the cylinder becomes more dense and the spheres slowly rise to the top. The lowest
floating sphere will indicate exact temperature.
How To Read Thermometer
The lowest temperature glass sphere within the group at the top of the thermometer tells
the correct temperature.
A. The temperature is determined by the lowest floating glass sphere.
B. If all of the spheres float to the top, the temperature is under the lowest floating
sphere.
C. If all of the spheres sink to the bottom, the temperature is over the highest sphere.
Please note: For the most accurate reading, it’s best not to place the thermometer in
direct sunlight.
Caution:
Liquid Ingredients: Liquid Paraffin
Not a toy. Keep Galileo Thermometer away from children to prevent an accident
If the Galileo Thermometer breaks, and you are exposed to the Liquid Paraffin, please do
the following:
Skin Contact: Immediately flush with plenty of water. Remove contaminated clothing
and shoes. Wash effected area with water and mild soap. Call a physician if skin
irritation occurs.
Eye Contact: Immediately flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. If
irritation persists, seek medical attention.
Ingestion: DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. Seek medical attention immediately.
Cleanup Suggestion: In case of a Liquid Paraffin spill, we suggest you wear protective
clothing, gloves, and eyewear to avoid contact with skin or eyes during cleanup.
Do not place Galileo Thermometer near a flame or heating unit as it may be flammable
under certain circumstances.
Mark Feldstein & Associates, inc.
www.markfeldstein.com