Actinometers

Actinometers

Actinometers are scientific instruments used to measure the intensity of radiation, particularly solar radiation. The term actinometer comes from the Greek words aktis meaning ray or beam, and metron meaning measure. These instruments are commonly used in meteorology, climatology, and solar energy research. The most common type of actinometer is the pyranometer, which measures the total amount of solar radiation received by a horizontal surface. Another type of actinometer is the UV actinometer, which measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation. Both types of actinometers consist of a thermopile, which is a device that converts the energy from radiation into an electrical signal. The electrical signal is then recorded and used to calculate the intensity of the radiation. Actinometers have a wide range of applications. They are used in weather stations to measure the amount of solar radiation received by the Earth's surface, which is an important factor in determining weather patterns. They are also used in the study of climate change, as changes in solar radiation can affect the Earth's climate. In addition, actinometers are used in the design and testing of solar energy systems, as they can provide accurate measurements of the amount of solar radiation that can be captured by solar panels. Overall, actinometers are important scientific instruments that are used to measure the intensity of radiation, particularly solar radiation. They have a wide range of applications in meteorology, climatology, and solar energy research.

pyranometer, UV actinometer, thermopile, weather stations, climate change

— Michael Martinez

CITATION : "Michael Martinez. 'Actinometers.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=282884 (Accessed on August 17, 2025)"