How Do You Spell COHERER?

Pronunciation: [kˈə͡ʊhəɹə] (IPA)

The word "coherer" is a technical term used in the field of electrical engineering. Its spelling can be a bit confusing, as it contains the letter combination "er" twice. However, the IPA phonetic transcription of this word can help to clarify its pronunciation: /koʊˈhɪrər/. The stress is on the second syllable, and the "h" sound is pronounced, making it clear that the word begins with "coh-" rather than "core-". Overall, the spelling of "coherer" accurately reflects its pronunciation.

COHERER Meaning and Definition

1. A coherer is an early electromagnetic device used for detecting and receiving radio signals. It is a simple device that consists of a glass tube or other non-conductive material filled with loosely packed metallic filings such as iron or nickel. The metallic filings are typically interspersed with non-conductive material such as glass or magnesia to maintain separation between the filings. The ends of the tube are connected to metal electrodes.

   The coherer operates on the principle of electrical conductivity. When no electromagnetic waves are present, the metallic filings in the coherer act as insulators, preventing the flow of electricity between the electrodes. However, when electromagnetic waves in the form of radio signals reach the coherer, they cause the metallic filings to cohere or stick together. This sudden change enables the electricity to flow through the coherer, acting as a switch.

   Coherers were commonly used in early radio communication systems. They served as the primary component for detecting electromagnetic waves in the form of Morse code or other signals. When the coherer detected a signal, it would trigger a mechanism to produce an audible sound or other indicator to alert the operator of the received message.

   Although the coherer is now obsolete and replaced by more modern technologies, it played a vital role in the development of wireless communication and paved the way for the advancement of radio technology.

Common Misspellings for COHERER

• foherer

Etymology of COHERER

The word "coherer" was coined in the late 19th century by the English physicist Sir Oliver Lodge. It is derived from the verb "cohere", which means to stick or hold together, and is rooted in the Latin word "cohaerēre" (co- meaning "together" and haerēre meaning "to stick"). The term "coherer" was used to describe a device Lodge invented for detecting and receiving radio waves. A coherer was essentially a glass tube containing metal filings, which would become conductive when exposed to electromagnetic waves. This change in conductivity enabled the detection and conversion of wireless signals into electrical currents, an essential development in the early days of wireless communication.

Plural form of COHERER is COHERERS