Definition

A device used to measure the amount of radiant energy by detecting changes in electrical resistance caused by absorbed radiation.

Example

The scientist used a bolometer to measure the infrared radiation emitted by the heated object.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a bolometer?

Yeah, I think it measures thermal radiation, right?

Exactly! It's pretty cool how it works with electrical resistance.

I know, right? It's fascinating how it can detect such small changes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bolometer → It is formed from "bolo-" (from Greek "ballein", meaning to throw) and "-meter" (from Greek "metron", meaning measure). The word refers to an instrument that measures the intensity of radiation by detecting the heat produced when radiation is absorbed.

Memory Tip

Think of 'throwing' ('ballein') energy and 'measuring' ('metron') its intensity — that's what a bolometer does.

Visually Confused Words