In order to obtain accurate measurements of temperature, it is important to place the thermometer in the shade rather than in direct sunlight. This is because:
1. A thermometer exposed to direct sunlight will be warmed by the absorption of insolation, causing it to assume a temperature greater than that of the air. Insolation refers to solar radiation that warms the Earth's surface. When the thermometer is exposed to direct sunlight, it absorbs this solar radiation and heats up, giving a false reading of the temperature.
2. Placing the thermometer in the shade helps prevent it from being influenced by external factors such as convection. If a thermometer is exposed to direct sunlight, it may be warmed by convection currents in the air, leading to a temperature reading higher than the actual air temperature.
3. By keeping the thermometer in the shade, it prevents the cooling effect of radiation from affecting the temperature reading. If a thermometer is exposed to direct sunlight and then placed in the shade, it may cool down due to the loss of heat through radiation, resulting in a temperature reading lower than the actual air temperature.
Therefore, to ensure accurate and meaningful measurements of temperature, it is essential to place the thermometer in the shade where it is shielded from direct sunlight and other external influences that could affect its readings.
