RecordPyroscope used by Joseph Black< 1 of 1 > Back
Pyroscope used by Joseph BlackA pyroscope is a form of differential thermoscope, an instrument which shows changes in temperature by the expansion and contraction of air in a bulb causing the fall or rise of a liquid in the attached capillary tube. This example was used in demonstrations by Professor T. C. Hope (1766-1844) at Edinburgh University. It was made in the early 19th century and is unsigned. The instrument has two glass spheres, one gilded, one clear, on each end of a glass capillary tube. The tube is supported in a groove cut in a wooden base and fastened by two leather pieces. It contains a dark fluid, possibly coloured sulphuric acid. T. C. Hope, like his predecessor, Joseph Black, was an inspiring teacher who attracted large numbers of students to his classes. However, it was reckoned that his failure to encourage practical work and research from 1823, led to the decline of Edinburgh from its leading position in Europe as a centre for the study of chemistry. Record detailsTo search on related items, click any linked text below.
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