Talk:Beckmann thermometer

Estimation of least significant digit.
When using a divided scale such as on a thermometer (including Beckmann thermometers), the last digit is always estimated. For instance, on a mercury thermometer that reads in 1 °C increments, it is possible to estimate how close the mercury column comes to the increments. If the mercury column is approximately 80% of the way between the 10 °C and 11 °C markings, then the measurement can be recorded as 10.8 °C. Of course, the actual uncertainty of this measurement (e.g. ± 0.1 °C vs. ±0.5 °C) is subject to discussion based on the particular thermometer and the context in which it is being used. In any event, the final digit recorded is always estimated. In the case of a Beckmann thermometer, which often has 0.01 °C markings, it is possible to estimate the reading to 0.001 °C, as was initially stated in the article. JCMPC (talk) 18:48, 26 October 2015 (UTC)