Thermometry: Why is mercury commonly used as a thermometric liquid instead of water? Select the most appropriate combined reason relevant to laboratory/clinical thermometers. Choose the correct option.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: It expands uniformly, does not wet glass, and has a high boiling point giving a wide measurable range

Explanation:


Reasons
Mercury shows near-uniform thermal expansion, does not wet glass (clear meniscus/readings), and boils at ~357°C enabling a wide upper range. It is also opaque and shiny for easy visibility.


Note
Although mercury freezes at about −39°C (higher than alcohols), its other properties make it favorable for many thermometers.


Final Answer
It expands uniformly, does not wet glass, and has a high boiling point giving a wide measurable range

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