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Book 32, Question 47 · Video

How do scientists measure a reptile’s temperature without touching it?

Video · 1:54 · Crafty Clover explains, from A Million Whys Book 32

Scientists can use a special thermometer that reads heat from a distance. It senses the heat that every object gives off and shows a number. This lets them check the temperature of a lizard’s skin without scaring it or getting close. They can also put tiny sensors in trial models. Reading the temperature helps them learn how reptiles use sun and shade.

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What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. How do scientists measure a reptile’s temperature without touching it?

The Big Idea

How do you take a lizard's temperature? Without touching it! How do scientists do it?

Distance Thermometers

Step one: Distance Thermometers. Scientists can use a special thermometer that reads heat from a distance. It senses the heat every object gives off and shows a number.

No Scaring

Step two: No Scaring. This lets them check a lizard's skin temperature without scaring it or getting close. The lizard keeps doing what it was doing.

Lizard Models

Step three: Lizard Models. They can also put tiny sensors inside lizard-shaped models set out in the sun. Reading temperatures helps them learn how reptiles use sun and shade.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! Reads from afar. Given off. With sensors. Studied.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! These thermometers can also check how warm a cup of cocoa is. Every object gives off some heat. Models stand in for real lizards. No scaring the animals.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Plan a no-touch experiment. Find two rocks, one in sun and one in shade. Write how you could tell which is warmer using only your eyes. Look for clues like shade, color, or melting frost. Write your plan in a notebook.

Outro

Scientists use thermometers that read heat from a distance, so they can check a lizard's temperature without scaring it. They also put sensors inside lizard-shaped models in the sun to learn how reptiles use sun and shade. Science is amazing! Keep wondering and keep exploring! Share what you learned with someone at home, and see what they think! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!

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