Definition

1. Noun:
   • An instrument for detecting and measuring radiant energy: A "radiometer" is a scientific device designed to detect and measure the intensity of radiant energy, which can be electromagnetic radiation (like light or heat) or acoustic radiation (sound waves).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The scientist used a sensitive radiometer to measure the solar radiation reaching the Earth's surface.
  • Acoustic radiometers are employed in sonar systems to map the ocean floor.

Advanced Usage

• Crookes radiometer: A specific, classic type of radiometer with vanes inside a partial vacuum that spin when exposed to light, often used for demonstration.
  • The spinning vanes of the Crookes radiometer on the desk demonstrated the conversion of light energy into motion.

Variants and Related Words

• Radiometric (adj): Pertaining to the measurement of radiant energy.
  • Radiometric dating techniques rely on precise measurements of radioactive decay.
• Radiometry (n): The science or technique of measuring radiant energy.
  • His research is in the field of optical radiometry.

Synonyms

• Radiation detector: A general term for a device that senses radiant energy.
• Radiant flux meter: A meter for measuring the power of electromagnetic radiation.

Related Phrases and Compounds

• Microwave radiometer: A radiometer designed to measure microwave radiation, often used in remote sensing and astronomy.
  • Satellites use microwave radiometers to measure atmospheric water vapor.
• Infrared radiometer: A device that measures infrared radiation, commonly used in temperature sensing and thermal imaging.
  • The firefighter's helmet was equipped with an infrared radiometer to see through smoke.

Noun

1. meter to detect and measure radiant energy (electromagnetic or acoustic)