The word "Lactometer" is spelled with six letters that are pronounced differently in English. IPA phonetic transcription reveals the pronunciation as /læktɒːmɪtə/. The "Lac-" syllable is pronounced with a short "a" sound followed by a "k" sound, while the second syllable "-to-" shares the same short "a" sound and is followed by a "t" and "o" sounds. Finally, the "-meter" syllable starts with a long "e" sound and ends with a "tər" sound. The lactometer is a device used to measure the specific gravity of milk.
A lactometer is a scientific instrument used to measure the specific gravity or density of milk in order to determine its quality or purity. Specifically designed for testing milk, a lactometer helps in assessing its composition, primarily the amount of water and solids present. It aids dairies and farmers in monitoring the milk's nutritional content and identifying any adulteration or dilution.
The lactometer typically consists of a glass or metal bulb, weighted at the bottom to maintain balance, and a graduated stem with markings indicating the specific gravity. To test milk, the lactometer is gently immersed in a sample, and the density reading is measured based on how much the lactometer sinks or floats. The specific gravity readings obtained are then compared to established standards to assess the milk's quality.
Used in various aspects of the dairy industry, a lactometer helps detect milk's freshness and identifies potential issues such as watering down or contamination. It provides valuable information for milk producers, processors, and regulatory agencies to ensure the integrity of milk products and maintain consumer trust.
Although the lactometer is primarily used for testing milk, it can also be employed to measure the density or specific gravity of other fluids, acting as a general gravity meter. However, its primary function and application lie within the dairy industry as an essential tool for milk analysis and quality control.
An instr. for ascertaining the quality of milk.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "lactometer" is derived from Latin and Greek roots. It comes from the Latin word "lac" meaning "milk" and the Greek word "metron" meaning "measure". Combining these roots, "lactometer" literally means "milk meter" or "instrument for measuring milk". This term is used to refer to a device that measures the specific gravity or density of milk.