Galvanometer: meaning, definitions and examples
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galvanometer
[ˌɡælvəˈnɒmətə ]
Definition
instrument measurement
A galvanometer is a device used for detecting and measuring electric current. It operates by utilizing the magnetic field produced by the current passing through a coil of wire. The degree of deflection of a pointer attached to the coil indicates the strength of the current. It is commonly used in laboratory settings and electronic applications to provide accurate measurements. Different types of galvanometers exist, including analog and digital models.
Synonyms
ammeter, current meter, electrical meter.
Examples of usage
- The technician used a galvanometer to test the circuit.
- She calibrated the galvanometer for precise measurements.
- The readout on the galvanometer indicated a strong current.
- He connected the galvanometer to the experimental setup.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term 'galvanometer' is derived from 'galvani', named after Luigi Galvani, who discovered that frog legs twitched when struck by electricity.
- The suffix '-meter' means 'to measure', so a galvanometer literally means 'measuring electricity'.
Scientific Context
- Galvanometers are vital in laboratories and research settings, offering precise readings of current, which is critical for experiments.
- The device works on the principle of electromagnetic induction; as current flows, it creates a magnetic field that moves a needle.
History
- The first galvanometer was invented in the early 19th century, revolutionizing the way scientists could analyze electrical circuits.
- Famous physicist Michael Faraday extensively utilized galvanometers in his experiments with electromagnetism, paving the way for modern electrical engineering.
Applications
- Galvanometers are used in many devices, like oscilloscopes, to visualize electrical signals, making them essential in various fields including robotics and telecommunications.
- Modern versions have adapted to digital formats, increasingly found in multimeters and advanced electronics testing equipment.
Pop Culture
- The concept of measuring electricity appears in films depicting inventors or scientists, showcasing their pioneering work with electricity and circuits.
- Galvanometers occasionally feature in escape room puzzles or fictional narratives about detectives using clever devices to uncover electronic secrets.
Translations
Translations of the word "galvanometer" in other languages:
🇵🇹 galvanômetro
🇮🇳 गैल्वेनोमीटर
🇩🇪 Galvanometer
🇮🇩 galvanometer
🇺🇦 гальванометр
🇵🇱 galwanometr
🇯🇵 ガルバノメーター
🇫🇷 galvanomètre
🇪🇸 galvanómetro
🇹🇷 galvanometre
🇰🇷 갈바노미터
🇸🇦 جلفانومتر
🇨🇿 galvanometr
🇸🇰 galvanometer
🇨🇳 电流计
🇸🇮 galvanometer
🇮🇸 galvanómetri
🇰🇿 гальванометр
🇬🇪 გალვანომეტრი
🇦🇿 galvanometre
🇲🇽 galvanómetro