The word pyrometer is spelled as /paɪˈrɒmɪtə/. It refers to a tool that measures high temperatures. The prefix "pyro-" indicates "fire" or "heat," while "meter" means "measure." The spelling of this word is important as misplacing a letter or two could create a different word with an entirely different meaning. The correct spelling is essential for accurately identifying and measuring high temperatures. Pyrometers are widely used in a wide range of industries, including metallurgy, automotive, and aerospace, among others.
A pyrometer is a scientific instrument that is specifically designed for measuring high temperatures, typically in industrial or laboratory settings. It operates based on the principle of thermal radiation, where it measures the electromagnetic radiation emitted by an object. The primary purpose of a pyrometer is to measure temperatures at extreme ranges that cannot be accurately determined with other common temperature measuring devices, such as thermocouples or mercury-in-glass thermometers.
Pyrometers are commonly used in various applications, including metallurgy, manufacturing, research and development, and high-temperature processes. They function by detecting and measuring the intensity of thermal radiation emitted by an object and then using this information to determine the temperature. Pyrometers can be contact or non-contact instruments, depending on the design and the specific requirements of the measurement.
Contact pyrometers generally have a probe or sensor that physically touches the object being measured, allowing for direct temperature measurement. Non-contact pyrometers, on the other hand, employ infrared technology to measure the radiation emitted from a distance, without physically touching the object. These pyrometers are often equipped with laser or optical targeting systems to accurately focus the measurement on the desired object.
In summary, a pyrometer is an advanced scientific instrument used for measuring high temperatures. It operates based on thermal radiation and is commonly used in industrial and laboratory settings to accurately measure extreme temperature ranges that cannot be measured by conventional temperature measuring devices.
An instrument for measuring very high degrees of heat, beyond the capacity of a mercurial thermometer.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
In chem., an instrument for measuring very high degrees of temperature; a contrivance for ascertaining the temperature of the flues of boilers.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The term "pyrometer" is derived from the Greek words "pyr" meaning "fire" and "metron" meaning "measure". Therefore, "pyrometer" literally translates to "fire measure". This name accurately reflects the purpose of a pyrometer, which is an instrument used for measuring high temperatures, particularly in environments involving intense heat or fire.