Physics Tuition Singapore O level Physics Tuition – Temperature Common Misconception

Misconception 1

Temperature is a vector quantity because it can have negative values similar to velocity

Correct Conception 1

Temperature is a scalar quantity and not a vector quantity. A negative value for velocity means its direction is opposite of the defined positive direction. A negative value for temperature means its value is lower than zero

Misconception 2

Ice point is the temperature of ice and steam point is the temperature of steam.

Correct Conception 2

Ice can have temperatures lower than 0°C and steam can have temperatures higher than 100°C. Therefore, this definition cannot provide fixed temperatures for calibration. The correct definition of ice point refers to the point where water becomes ice or vice-versa (melting). Steam point refers to the point where water becomes steam (boiling) or vice-versa

Misconception 3

The colour of mercury is red and it is commonly used in thermometers

Correct Conception 3

The colour of mercury is silvery and it is only commonly used in laboratory thermometers

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