An alcohol thermometer is a device used to measure temperature, utilizing alcohol as the thermometric fluid. Unlike mercury thermometers, which can be hazardous, alcohol thermometers are safer and often used in household settings. The alcohol expands and contracts with temperature changes, allowing for accurate readings on a calibrated scale. These thermometers typically feature a glass tube with a bulb at one end filled with colored alcohol, making it easy to read the temperature. They are commonly used in various applications, including weather stations and laboratories, where precise temperature measurements are essential.