Isolator: meaning, definitions and examples

An isolator is used to describe something or someone that creates a barrier to separate or block off different parts or elements, often in a technical or medical context.

• The scientist used an isolator to prevent contamination in the lab.
• The isolator in the electrical circuit ensures safety by disconnecting the power.

An insulator is utilized to prevent the transfer of electricity, heat, or sound, generally in scientific, engineering, or construction settings.

• Rubber is a well-known insulator commonly used in electrical applications.
• Good door insulation acts as an insulator to keep the house warm.

A blocker refers to something that stops or hinders progress, often used in sports, medical, or technological contexts. It sometimes carries a negative connotation.

• The defender acted as an effective blocker against the opponent's moves.
• Certain medications act as blockers to prevent high blood pressure.

A separator is used to divide or keep things apart, often in industrial and technical situations.

• The oil-water separator ensures that wastewater is properly treated.
• The layout of the factory includes separators to keep different production lines distinct.

This term is typically used in scientific or medical contexts to describe a device or environment where something is kept separate from contaminants or external elements.

• The laboratory uses an isolator to prevent the contamination of samples.
• Patients with highly infectious diseases are kept in an isolator to prevent the spread of the illness.

This phrase is used in environmental and ecological contexts to refer to a species that is native to a specific geographic area and found nowhere else.

• The koala is an endemic species of Australia.
• Conservation efforts are critical for protecting endemic species in the Galapagos Islands.

Used in regulatory, legal, or environmental contexts to describe an organism whose distribution or use is controlled by regulations due to potential harm or risk it might pose.

• Importing restricted organisms requires special permits and compliance with quarantine regulations.
• Research on genetically modified crops often involves working with restricted organisms.