Whats exactly does CPU temperature refer to?

[MykC]

Ok, so on a multicore processor, programs like everest and speedfan will report CPU temperatures and each of your core temperatures.

I understand that (at least I think I do) the core temperature refers to the temperature of the individual core and the CPU temperature is....? Maybe I don't understand the difference between a core and the cpu. I don't know. I figure the CPU temperature is just a diode in the middle of everything.

 

[CompuTronix]

Core i7 and Core 2 Temperature Guide - http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/221745-29-core-core-temperature-guide

 

[MykC]

Thank you. Now I just have to find the max Tcase and Tjunction for a AMD Phenom II 720.