spectrometer
UK: /spɛkˈtrɒmɪtə/ | US: /spɛkˈtrɑːmɪtər/
n. An instrument used to measure properties of light (or other electromagnetic radiation) over a specific portion of the spectrum, typically to identify or analyze substances.
The word "spectrometer" combines "spectro-" (derived from Latin "spectrum," meaning "appearance" or "image," later specialized to refer to the band of colors in light) and "-meter" (from Greek "metron," meaning "measure"). The term emerged in the 19th century as scientific instruments for analyzing light spectra became essential in chemistry and physics. The logical progression reflects the device's function: measuring ("meter") the components of a spectrum ("spectro-").
The lab technician used a spectrometer to analyze the chemical composition of the sample.
Modern spectrometers can detect trace elements in materials with high precision.
Astronomers rely on spectrometers to study the light emitted by distant stars.
The portable spectrometer allowed for on-site environmental testing.
Calibrating the spectrometer ensures accurate wavelength measurements.