trace detector
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A trace detector is a specialized screening device designed to identify minute quantities of specific substances, most commonly explosives. Its primary function is security screening, and it is frequently employed at high-security locations such as airport terminals to check passengers, luggage, or cargo for dangerous residues.
Usage
The term is used as a compound noun. It refers to the physical device or the category of technology used for security purposes. * Security personnel use a trace detector to swab a piece of luggage. * The new trace detector at the checkpoint can identify several new explosive compounds. * All carry-on bags are subject to screening by a trace detector.
Advanced Usage
- The phrase often appears in technical, security, and aviation contexts discussing threat detection methodologies and equipment.
- It can be part of longer noun phrases specifying the type, such as "ion mobility spectrometry trace detector" or "portable trace detector."
Variants and Related Words
- Explosives trace detector (ETD): A more specific term for the most common type of trace detector.
- Detector: The general device for discovering the presence of something.
- Scanner: A broader term for electronic screening devices.
Synonyms
- Explosives detector
- Vapor detector
- Chemical sniffer (informal)
Related Phrases
- To swab for traces: The action of collecting a sample for a trace detector.
- The officer will swab your laptop for traces of explosives.
- Trace detection: The process or technology itself.
- Trace detection is a critical layer of airport security.
Noun
- a screening device for traces of explosives; used at airline terminals