COLOURIMETER Meaning and
Definition
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A colorimeter is a scientific apparatus used to measure and quantify the color properties of a substance or solution. It is commonly used in analytical chemistry and various industrial processes to determine the concentration of a particular substance or to assess the quality or purity of a sample based on its color.
A colorimeter works by analyzing the wavelengths and intensities of light that are absorbed, transmitted, or reflected by a sample. The device typically consists of a light source, a sample holder, and a detector. The light source emits a specific wavelength of light that is directed onto the sample, and the detector measures the amount of light that is absorbed or transmitted by the sample.
The colorimeter generates numerical data, usually expressed as absorbance or transmittance values, which can be used to correlate the color of a sample with a known concentration or quality parameter. These values can then be compared to a calibration curve or a database of reference values to obtain accurate measurements.
Colorimeters are widely used in various fields such as food and beverage industry, environmental monitoring, clinical laboratories, and water quality testing. They provide a simple and efficient method for quantifying the colorimetric properties of a sample, allowing for rapid analysis and reliable results.
Etymology of COLOURIMETER
The word "colourimeter" is derived from the combination of two words: "colour" and "meter".
The term "colour" stems from the Middle English word "colour" and the Old French word "color", both meaning "hue, appearance, or shade". It ultimately traces back to the Latin word "color" with the same meaning.
The word "meter" is derived from the Greek word "metron", which broadly represents the concept of measurement or counting. It has since been adopted into English to indicate an instrument or device used for measuring or recording specific quantities.
Combining these two elements, "colourimeter" is a term that refers to an instrument or device used for measuring or quantifying colors.
Similar spelling words for COLOURIMETER
