dumb thermometer question:

and what a way to start posting!
I understand traditional closed mercury thermometers work based on the expansion and contraction of the volume of the liquid based on temperature but will such a thermometer work equally well if operated sideways; that is, with no benefit of gravity to allow the contracted volume to go back down to the bulb?
anyone know? theoretical and practical responses appreciated.
thanks

 

you know thats a very good question to which i don't have a clue.
ummhmmmm,,,,
But i would think verticle

 

i think so too, but im not convinced. thanks for the response. anyone else?

 

i have several of these thermometers but in reality it isn't mercury any more but another liquid as mercury was banned years ago

but due to the preasure difference in the glass tube it makes no differance what position they are in they will still be accurate i have even had some in the upside down and they still showed the corect temp

 

awesome, thanks!

 

oh yea no question is dumb