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1. (n.) bolometer
a device for measuring minute amounts of radiant energy by means of changes of resistance in an electric conductor caused by changes in its temperature.
Etymology: (1895–1900, Amer.)
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| Definition of 'bolometer' |
Princeton's WordNet |
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1. (noun) bolometer
an instrument that measures heat radiation; extremely sensitive
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| Definition of 'bolometer' |
Webster Dictionary |
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1. (noun) bolometer
an instrument for measuring minute quantities of radiant heat, especially in different parts of the spectrum; -- called also actinic balance, thermic balance
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| Definition of 'bolometer' |
The Standard Electrical Dictionary |
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1. bolometer
An apparatus for detecting small amounts of radiant energy (radiant heat, so called). A coil suspended by a fine wire or filament so as to be free to rotate under the effect of force is made up of two parallel and equal wires, insulated from each other, but connected so that parallel currents sent through them go in opposite direction through each. This coil is hung in a strong electro-magnetic field produced by a large coil surrounding it. When a current passes through the suspended coil no effect will follow, because the oppositely wound portions counteract each other exactly. In the circuit with one half of the suspended coil is an exceedingly thin strip of platinum wire. The other half of the coil has no strips. Both halves unite after leaving the coil. If now the strip of platinum is heated its conductivity is affected and its half of the coil receives less current than the other half. This disturbs the balance and the coil swings through a small arc. This apparatus may be made very sensitive, so that an increase of temperature of 1/1400º F., 9/70000°C. (1/14000º F.) will be perceptible. Another construction takes the form of a Wheatstone Bridge, q. v., in whose arms are introduced resistances consisting of bands of iron, .5 Millimeter wide (.02 inches), .004 millimeter (.00016 inch) thick, and folded on themselves 14 times so as to make a rectangular grating, 17 x 12 millimeters (.68 x .48 inch). The least difference of heat applied to the grating affects the galvanometer.
Synonym-Thermic Balance.
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Definitions of bolometer 
