Definition

A device that uses soft iron cores and coils of wire to detect and measure magnetic fields, often indicating their direction and strength.

Example

The scientist used a fluxgate to measure the Earth's magnetic field during the experiment.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a fluxgate?

Yeah, it's that device that measures magnetic fields, right?

Exactly! I read that it can really help with navigation in space.

That sounds fascinating, I’d love to learn more about how it works!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fluxgate is formed from "flux" (from Latin "fluxus", meaning flowing) and "gate" (from Old English "geat", meaning opening or passage). The term describes a device that measures the flow of magnetic fields, hence the idea of a 'gate' for the 'flow' of magnetic flux.

Memory Tip

Think of 'flux' meaning 'flow' and 'gate' as an 'opening' — a fluxgate measures the flow of magnetic fields through an opening.

Visually Confused Words