Definition

A device that measures how much the direction of polarized light is rotated when it passes through a material or sample.

Example

The scientist used a polarimeter to analyze the sugar content in the solution.

Conversation

Have you ever used a polarimeter in your science experiments?

Not really, but I’ve heard they’re pretty interesting.

Yeah, they help measure how light interacts with different substances.

That sounds cool! I’d love to see one in action.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Polarimeter → It is formed from "polar" (from Latin "polaris", meaning of the poles) and "-meter" (from Greek "metron", meaning measure). A polarimeter is an instrument that measures the angle of rotation of polarized light as it passes through a substance, relating to the poles of light.

Memory Tip

Think of measuring something related to the 'poles' ('polar') and using a tool to 'measure' ('-meter'). This helps you remember that a polarimeter is a device that measures the properties of polarized light.

Visually Confused Words