Difference between Laboratory Thermometer and Clinical Thermometer
When it comes to measuring temperature, there are many types of thermometers available in the market. However, two of the most commonly used are laboratory thermometers and clinical thermometers. While both are used to measure temperature, there are some significant differences between them.
Construction and Design
Laboratory thermometers are designed to be more accurate and precise when measuring temperature. They are made of high-quality materials such as borosilicate glass, which makes them more resistant to thermal shock.
Clinical thermometers, on the other hand, are designed to be more portable and convenient for use in a medical setting. They are typically made of plastic, have a smaller size, and have fewer parts than laboratory thermometers.
Measurement Range
Laboratory thermometers are designed to measure a wide range of temperatures, ranging from -200°C to over 1500°C. This is because they are used in various industries where extreme temperatures are required, such as in the chemical industry, metallurgy, and pharmaceuticals.
Clinical thermometers, on the other hand, are designed to measure body temperatures, which typically range from 35°C to 42°C. They are used to measure the temperature of humans and animals to monitor their health conditions.
Accuracy and Precision
Laboratory thermometers are more accurate and precise when measuring temperature than clinical thermometers. They have smaller scales and are designed to measure changes in temperature below 1°C. They are also calibrated regularly to ensure their accuracy.
Clinical thermometers, on the other hand, have larger scales and are designed to measure changes in temperature of up to 2°C. They are calibrated less frequently than laboratory thermometers, and their accuracy may be affected by factors such as ambient temperature, humidity, and user error.
Conclusion
Both laboratory thermometers and clinical thermometers are important tools for measuring temperature. However, they are designed and constructed differently to suit their specific applications. Laboratory thermometers are more accurate and precise, while clinical thermometers are more portable and convenient for measuring body temperature. Knowing the differences between the two can help you choose the right thermometer for your needs.
Table difference between laboratory thermometer and clinical thermometer
| Feature | Laboratory Thermometer | Clinical Thermometer |
|---|---|---|
| Uses | Used for scientific and research purposes in laboratories | Used for measuring body temperature in healthcare settings |
| Range | Has a wide temperature range | Has a narrow temperature range between 35°C and 42°C |
| Accuracy | The accuracy is higher than clinical thermometers | Accuracy is lower than laboratory thermometers |
| Reading time | Can take longer to read the temperature | Provides quick readings |
| Size | Can be larger in size | Is typically small and portable |
| Application | Used by trained professionals and scientists | Used by healthcare professionals and individuals at home |