What type of thermometer uses two dissimilar metals joined together to measure extreme temperatures?

Prepare for the New Zealand CPL Meteorology Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question offers hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

The thermometer that utilizes two dissimilar metals joined together to measure extreme temperatures is known as a thermocouple. This instrument operates based on the principle of thermoelectricity, where when the junction of the two metals is heated or cooled, it generates a voltage that is correlated to the temperature difference between the junctions. This makes thermocouples highly suitable for measuring a wide range of temperatures, including very high or extreme temperatures, which is an essential characteristic in many industrial and scientific applications.

In contrast, other types of thermometers such as fluid-in-metal thermometers and alcohol thermometers rely on the expansion or contraction of a fluid contained in a glass tube to measure temperature changes, which limits their ability to accurately measure higher temperature ranges. Thermographs also do not measure extreme temperatures in the same manner as a thermocouple; rather, they record temperature changes over time using various mechanisms, often making them less direct and less suitable for extreme conditions compared to thermocouples.

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