What does the hot junction of a thermocouple refer to?

The hot junction of a thermocouple refers to the welded end of the two different metals that are joined together and exposed to the temperature being measured. In a thermocouple, this junction generates a voltage that corresponds to the temperature difference between the hot junction and the cold junction. The hot junction is where the heat is applied, allowing it to register the temperature of the environment or substance it is in contact with. This measurement process takes advantage of the thermoelectric effect, which states that a voltage will be produced when two dissimilar metals are heated at their junction.

Understanding the thermocouple function is essential in various applications, particularly in commercial food equipment, where accurate temperature measurements are crucial for safety and quality control.