Constant length metallic wire as a thermometer, using tension?

In summary, a constant length metallic wire can function as a thermometer by utilizing the principle that its electrical resistance changes with temperature. When the wire is subjected to tension, its length and, consequently, its resistance are altered. This relationship allows for temperature measurement by monitoring the changes in resistance as the wire expands or contracts with temperature fluctuations, providing a precise and effective means of temperature sensing.
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Would it be possible to use as a thermometer a thermodynamic system consisting of a constant length wire by using the wire tension as the thermometric property?
I posted another question about a thermodynamic system with three coordinates, namely, that of a metallic wire. We can describe that system with temperature, wire tension, and wire length.

The result derived in that question was that the partial derivative of wire tension relative to absolute temperature (with length constant) is negative for a metallic wire (well, at least I think so, my question was precisely if this is the result obtained in the calculations I showed).

I also posted a question about thermometers and absolute temperature scales.

Can we use such a metallic wire as a thermometer, with the thermometric property being the tension?

Suppose the fixed length is L, and we determine the tension of the wire when the temperature is at the triple point of water. Call this tension ##\zeta_{TP}##.

Then, we change the temperature to some new equilibrium with a new tension. Now, at this point, I am using the word "temperature" without specifying if it is higher or lower than the initial state because we are in the process of defining the values of temperature.

Would we not have an empirical temperature scale defined by

##\theta(\zeta)=273.16\frac{\zeta}{\zeta_{TP}}##?

Now, this is still measured in Kelvin.

However, we would have, for example, the temperature at the boiling point of water being lower than the temperature at the freezing point.

Is this reasoning correct and would this temperature scale be considered "absolute"?
 
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FAQ: Constant length metallic wire as a thermometer, using tension?

How does a constant length metallic wire function as a thermometer using tension?

A constant length metallic wire functions as a thermometer by exploiting the principle that the tension in the wire changes with temperature. As the temperature increases, the wire expands, and if its length is kept constant, the tension in the wire will decrease. Conversely, as the temperature decreases, the wire contracts, increasing the tension. By measuring these changes in tension, the temperature can be inferred.

What materials are suitable for making a constant length metallic wire thermometer?

Materials with a known and consistent coefficient of thermal expansion are suitable for making a constant length metallic wire thermometer. Common materials include metals like copper, aluminum, and steel. These metals have predictable expansion and contraction rates with temperature changes, which is crucial for accurate temperature measurement.

How do you measure the tension in the wire to determine the temperature?

The tension in the wire can be measured using a variety of methods. One common approach is to use a force sensor or a strain gauge attached to the wire. These devices can detect minute changes in tension as the wire expands or contracts. The measured tension is then correlated with temperature using a pre-determined calibration curve.

What are the advantages of using a constant length metallic wire thermometer over traditional thermometers?

One advantage of using a constant length metallic wire thermometer is its robustness and durability, as it can withstand harsh environments where traditional thermometers might fail. Additionally, it can provide continuous and real-time temperature monitoring with high sensitivity. This method is also less prone to contamination and does not require direct contact with the substance being measured.

What are the limitations of using a constant length metallic wire thermometer?

Limitations include the need for precise calibration and sensitivity to factors other than temperature, such as mechanical vibrations or external forces, which can affect tension measurements. Additionally, the wire material's properties must remain stable over time and not be affected by environmental conditions like humidity or corrosion. Ensuring a constant length can also be challenging in practical applications.

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