vernier
/'və:njə/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A small movable scale that slides along a main scale: A vernier is a short auxiliary scale that moves parallel to a main graduated scale. It is calibrated to allow for the precise reading of fractional divisions of the main scale's smallest unit.
- A person: Paul Vernier (1580–1637), a French mathematician and instrument inventor who described the principle of the vernier scale.
Usage Examples
- Noun (Instrument scale):
- The caliper uses a vernier to provide measurements accurate to a hundredth of a millimeter.
- To read the precise angle, align the zero mark on the vernier with the main scale.
- Noun (Person):
- The vernier scale is named after the mathematician Vernier.
Advanced Usage
- Vernier caliper: A measuring instrument consisting of a main scale and a sliding vernier scale, used for taking precise internal and external measurements.
- The engineer used a vernier caliper to check the diameter of the piston.
- Vernier acuity: A term in optics and physiology referring to the ability to detect a misalignment between two lines or gratings; it is a measure of hyperacuity.
- Vernier acuity is much finer than the resolution limit of the eye's photoreceptors.
Variants and Related Words
- Vernier scale (n): The specific auxiliary scale mechanism.
- The vernier scale magnifies the precision of the main scale.
- Vernier rocket (n): A small thruster on a spacecraft or rocket used for making fine adjustments in velocity or attitude.
- The spacecraft fired its vernier rockets for a minor course correction.
Synonyms
- Auxiliary scale: A secondary scale used for finer measurement.
- Nonius: An older, less common term for a similar device, named after the Portuguese mathematician Pedro Nunes.
Related Phrases
- Vernier adjustment: A fine, precise adjustment made using a vernier mechanism.
- Final alignment required a careful vernier adjustment.
Noun
- a small movable scale that slides along a main scale; the small scale is calibrated to indicate fractional divisions of the main scale
- French mathematician who described the vernier scale (1580-1637)