Chapter U3.4, Problem 3E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation : Advantages of Celsius scale over the Fahrenheit scale needs to be mentioned.

Concept Introduction : Thermometer is an instrument used to measure temperature. It has a scale which shows numerical values corresponding to temperatures.

Answer to Problem 3E

Advantages of Celsius scale over the Fahrenheit scale are:

• Celsius scale is more convenient to use as the melting temperature of ice is 0⁰C and boiling point of water is 100⁰C. This is easy to remember in contrast to 32⁰F and 212⁰F.
• Celsius scale is more user- friendly as it is easy to calculate the difference in temperature because the starting temperature is zero.
• Most of the world and most scientists use Celsius scale while United States gives temperatures in Fahrenheit.

Explanation of Solution

In Celsius scale the melting temperature of ice is 0⁰C and boiling point of water is 100⁰C as measured at sea level. On the Fahrenheit scale, the melting temperature of ice is 32⁰F and boiling point of water is 212⁰F.

There are 180 degrees difference between 32⁰Fand 212⁰F. So a Fahrenheit degree unit is much smaller change in temperature than a Celsius degree unit.

The S.I unit of temperature is Kelvin which is also based on Celsius scale. It also has 100 degrees difference between melting and boiling temperatures of water. So Celsius is a more preferred scale for scientists because of the same unit size.

Conclusion

Two commonly used scales are the Celsius scale and the Fahrenheit scale. Most of the world and most scientists use Celsius scale while weather report in United States gives temperatures in Fahrenheit.