BOLOMETER Meaning and
Definition
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A bolometer is a device used for detecting and measuring the intensity of electromagnetic radiation, particularly in the infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum. It consists of a thermally sensitive element, usually a thin strip or grid of a heat-absorbing material such as a semiconductor or metal, positioned in a vacuum or inert gas environment. When exposed to radiation, the temperature of the absorbing element increases and this change in temperature is measured and correlated to the intensity of the incident radiation.
The principle of operation of a bolometer is based on the fact that the resistance of a material changes with temperature. By measuring the change in resistance caused by the absorbed radiation, the bolometer provides a quantitative measure of the radiation intensity. The accuracy and sensitivity of a bolometer depend on various factors including the heat capacity, thermal conductivity, and temperature coefficient of resistance of the absorbing material.
Bolometers are widely used in scientific research, astronomy, and remote sensing applications. They are employed for detecting and characterizing sources of radiation, such as celestial bodies, as well as for monitoring and controlling the power output of various radiation sources. Due to their high sensitivity and ability to operate over a broad range of frequencies, bolometers are valuable tools in fields such as astronomy, meteorology, materials science, and environmental monitoring.
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1. An instrument for measuring the force of the heart beat as distinguished from the blood pressure. 2. An instrument for determining minute degrees of radiant heat.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for BOLOMETER
- volometer
- nolometer
- holometer
- golometer
- bilometer
- bklometer
- bllometer
- bplometer
- b0lometer
- b9lometer
- bokometer
- bopometer
- booometer
- bolimeter
- bolkmeter
- bollmeter
- bolpmeter
- bol0meter
- bol9meter
Etymology of BOLOMETER
The word "bolometer" was coined by the American astronomer Samuel Pierpont Langley in 1878. It is derived from the Greek words "bolḗ" (meaning "throw" or "cast") and "métron" (meaning "measure"). The combination of these Greek roots reflects the function of the device, which is used to measure the intensity of electromagnetic radiation, particularly infrared radiation.
Similar spelling word for BOLOMETER
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