Radiometer: meaning, definitions and examples

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radiometer

 

[ ˈreɪdioʊˌmɛtər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

scientific instrument

A radiometer is a device that measures the intensity of electromagnetic radiation. It is commonly used in scientific research to analyze the properties of light, heat, and other forms of radiation. The instrument operates by detecting the energy of photons and converting it into a readable format, typically as a measure of radiation intensity. Radiometers can be found in various fields, including meteorology, astronomy, and environmental studies.

Synonyms

light meter, radiant energy meter, radiation meter

Examples of usage

  • The radiometer recorded high levels of solar radiation today.
  • Researchers used a radiometer to monitor the temperature of the surface.
  • The radiometer is essential for studying climate changes.

Translations

Translations of the word "radiometer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 radiômetro

🇮🇳 रेडियोमीटर

🇩🇪 Radiometer

🇮🇩 radiometer

🇺🇦 радіометр

🇵🇱 radiometr

🇯🇵 ラジオメーター

🇫🇷 radiomètre

🇪🇸 radiómetro

🇹🇷 radyometre

🇰🇷 라디오미터

🇸🇦 مقياس الإشعاع

🇨🇿 radimetr

🇸🇰 radiometer

🇨🇳 辐射计

🇸🇮 radiometer

🇮🇸 geislameðferð

🇰🇿 радиометр

🇬🇪 რადიომეტრი

🇦🇿 radiometr

🇲🇽 radiómetro

Word origin

The term 'radiometer' originates from the combination of the Latin word 'radius,' meaning 'ray' or 'beam,' and the Greek word 'metron,' meaning 'measure.' The concept of measuring radiation began to take shape in the 19th century with advancements in physics and energy studies. Early radiometers were simple devices that demonstrated the effects of light and heat on materials. The most famous design, the Crookes radiometer, was invented by the British scientist William Crookes in 1873. It consisted of a glass bulb with vanes that rotate when exposed to light, demonstrating the conversion of light energy into mechanical energy. Over time, more sophisticated models have been developed to measure various wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation, solidifying the radiometer's place in scientific research.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,620, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.