Which type of thermocouple probe is most appropriate for accurately measuring the internal temperature of a pork roast during cooking?

• A. Air probe
• B. Immersion probe
• C. Surface probe
• D. Needle probe

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of each type of thermocouple probe: an air probe measures the temperature of air, an immersion probe measures the temperature of liquids, and a surface probe measures the temperature of surfaces.
2. Recognize that measuring the internal temperature of a pork roast requires inserting the probe into the meat to get an accurate reading inside, not just on the surface or in the surrounding air.
3. Identify that a needle probe is designed to penetrate solid food items, allowing it to measure the internal temperature accurately by being inserted directly into the meat.
4. Compare the options given (air, immersion, surface) and note that none of these are suitable for internal temperature measurement of solid food, which is why the needle probe is the correct choice.
5. Conclude that for cooking meats like pork roast, the needle probe is the most appropriate thermocouple probe because it can be inserted into the meat to provide an accurate internal temperature reading.