The thermocouple functions according to the Seebeck effect. To put the Seebeck effect in its most basic terms, it was found that when there was a difference in temperature between two pieces or kinds of metal it would affect the deflection of a compass needle. This movement in the needle was later determined to be the result of the two metals generating electricity. Once the Seebeck effect had been proven to be a recurring phenomenon, the thermocouple was born.
Thermocouples measure the temperature difference between two objects, so it must be set at a control temperature in order to obtain an accurate reading. If you know what the base temperature you’re beginning with is, you will be able to determine rather easily the temperature of the object of your choice. From the food service industry to the steel manufacturing industry, these simple tools are now used in a huge variety of industries.