# spectrometer

/spɛkˈtɹɑmətɝ/ (US) · /spɛktɹˈɒmɪtɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/spectrometer
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a machine that measures the different colors of light to find out what chemicals are in a sample. Scientists use it to study things like the air or the stars.

For teachers: an instrument used to measure the spectrum of light or other electromagnetic radiation. It identifies the chemical composition of a substance by analyzing how it interacts with light.

## Examples

- The scientist used a spectrometer to test the water sample.
- Astronomers use a high-resolution spectrometer to determine the chemical makeup of distant stars and planets.

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