Gravimeter: meaning, definitions and examples

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gravimeter

 

[ ˈgrævɪˌmiːtər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

scientific instrument

A gravimeter is an instrument used to measure the gravitational force at a specific location. It is primarily used in geophysics to detect variations in the Earth's gravitational field, which can indicate geological structures, oil reserves, or mineral deposits.

Synonyms

gravitational sensor, gravity meter

Examples of usage

  • The geologist used a gravimeter to study the subsurface density changes.
  • Gravimeters are essential tools in the field of oil exploration.
  • Researchers employed a gravimeter to detect gravitational anomalies.

Translations

Translations of the word "gravimeter" in other languages:

🇵🇹 gravímetro

🇮🇳 गुरुत्वाकर्षण मीटर

🇩🇪 Gravimeter

🇮🇩 gravimeter

🇺🇦 гравіметр

🇵🇱 grawimetr

🇯🇵 重力計

🇫🇷 gravimètre

🇪🇸 gravímetro

🇹🇷 gravimetre

🇰🇷 중력계

🇸🇦 مقياس الجاذبية

🇨🇿 gravimetr

🇸🇰 gravimeter

🇨🇳 重力仪

🇸🇮 gravimeter

🇮🇸 þyngdarmælir

🇰🇿 гравиметр

🇬🇪 გრადიმეტრი

🇦🇿 gravimetre

🇲🇽 gravímetro

Etymology

The term 'gravimeter' comes from the Latin word 'gravitas', meaning 'weight' or 'gravity', combined with the suffix '-meter' which denotes an instrument for measuring. The development of gravimeters began in the 19th century with the invention of the first accurate instruments to measure gravity's pull on the Earth. Over time, these devices have evolved significantly, incorporating advancements in technology to improve precision and functionality. Early gravimeters were based on pendulum swings, while modern versions utilize springs or superconducting materials to detect minute variations in gravitational force. With applications ranging from geology to aerospace navigation, gravimeters play a crucial role in understanding the Earth's physical properties.