gradiometer

[grey-dee-om-i-ter]

noun

Physics.

1. any instrument used to measure a gradient, as the rate of change of the geomagnetic field.

gradiometer

/ ˌɡrædɪˈɒmɪtə /

noun

1. physics an instrument for measuring the gradient of a magnetic field

2. surveying an instrument used to ensure that a long gradient remains constant

Word History and Origins

Origin of gradiometer¹

First recorded in 1800–10; gradi(ent) + -o- + -meter

Example Sentences

Its sophisticated gradiometer - the instrument used to make gravity measurements - incorporated composite materials which were expected to ride out the destructive forces that would ordinarily incinerate traditional components.

From BBC

Its sophisticated gradiometer - the instrument used to make gravity measurements - incorporated composite materials that were expected to ride out the destructive forces that would ordinarily incinerate traditional components.

From BBC

Its super-sensitive gradiometer was used to detect the tiny variations in the pull of gravity across the surface of the Earth.

From BBC

Goce, for example, made use of a carbon-carbon structure in its gradiometer.

From BBC

Parts of the gradiometer instrument will survive to the surface It is simply not possible at this stage to say precisely when or where the debris fall will occur.

From BBC