actinometer
/,ækti'nɔmitə/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: An actinometer is a scientific instrument designed to measure the intensity of electromagnetic radiation, particularly that of light. This measurement is typically achieved by utilizing the photochemical effect, where the radiation causes a measurable chemical change.
Usage
The word "actinometer" is a technical term used primarily in scientific fields such as physics, chemistry, and meteorology. It refers specifically to the measuring device itself.
Examples
- The researcher used an actinometer to quantify the solar radiation reaching the Earth's surface.
- Accurate measurement of ultraviolet light intensity in the experiment required a calibrated actinometer.
- Early studies in photochemistry relied heavily on the actinometer to determine light absorption rates.
Advanced Usage
- Chemical Actinometry: This is a specific application where an actinometer is used to measure light intensity based on the rate of a known photochemical reaction. For example, the decomposition of oxalic acid in the presence of uranyl sulfate can serve as an actinometric system.
Variants and Related Words
- Actinometric (adjective): Pertaining to the measurement of radiation intensity.
- Actinometry (noun): The science or process of measuring electromagnetic radiation, especially for chemical purposes.
Synonyms
- Radiometer: A more general term for an instrument that measures radiant energy. However, a radiometer may measure different properties (e.g., power) and does not necessarily use a photochemical method.
- Light Meter: A common term for devices measuring light intensity, but these are often used in photography and may not be based on photochemical principles.
Notes on Different Meanings
The term "actinometer" has a single, specific scientific meaning related to radiation measurement. It does not have common idiomatic or figurative uses.
Noun
- an instrument for measuring the intensity of electromagnetic radiation (usually by the photochemical effect)