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Thermocouple Seebeck Effect — FRCA Primary MCQ

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ModeratePhysics & Clinical MeasurementThermocouple Seebeck EffectFRCA Primary

A thermocouple measures temperature by:

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Correct answer: BThe Seebeck effect generating a voltage at the junction of two dissimilar metals proportional to temperature

A thermocouple generates a small voltage (Seebeck effect) at the junction of two dissimilar metals (e.g. copper-constantan) proportional to the temperature difference between the measuring junction and a reference junction. Advantages: wide range / small size / rapid response. Disadvantage: low output voltage requiring amplification. Non-linear response.

Reference: Al-Shaikh Stacey 2019 Essentials of Anaesthetic Equipment