photometry: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal, Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “photometry” mean?
The measurement of the intensity, brightness, or other properties of light.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The measurement of the intensity, brightness, or other properties of light.
The science and technique of measuring light, typically using a photometer, across various wavelengths. In astronomy, it refers to the measurement of the brightness of celestial objects.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling follows standard British/American conventions for the suffix '-metry'.
Connotations
None beyond its technical meaning.
Frequency
Equally rare and specialised in both varieties, used almost exclusively in scientific and industrial fields.
Grammar
How to Use “photometry” in a Sentence
Photometry of [celestial object/light source]Photometry using [instrument/technique]Conduct/carry out photometryVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “photometry” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The photometric data was crucial for the study.
American English
- Photometric calibration ensured accurate readings.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Almost never used. Potential use in technical specifications for lighting products.
Academic
Used primarily in physics, astronomy, chemistry, and optical engineering departments.
Everyday
Not used.
Technical
Central term in optics, astronomy, lighting design, and remote sensing.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “photometry”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “photometry”
- Confusing 'photometry' with 'photography' or 'spectroscopy'.
- Using it as a general term for 'looking at light' rather than precise measurement.
- Misspelling as 'photometery'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Photography captures images, while photometry measures the quantitative properties of light itself, like intensity or luminous flux.
Photometry measures light as perceived by the human eye (weighted for visual sensitivity), while radiometry measures the total power of electromagnetic radiation objectively, including invisible wavelengths.
With careful calibration and software, a digital camera can be used for basic photometry, but scientific-grade work requires specialised photometers or CCDs.
There is no common specific term. They would be described as a scientist, astronomer, engineer, or technician specialising in photometry or photometric analysis.
The measurement of the intensity, brightness, or other properties of light.
Photometry is usually formal, technical/scientific in register.
Photometry: in British English it is pronounced /fəʊˈtɒm.ɪ.tri/, and in American English it is pronounced /foʊˈtɑː.mə.tri/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'PHOTO' (light) + 'METRY' (measurement). It's the METRICS of a PHOTO.
Conceptual Metaphor
MEASUREMENT IS QUANTIFICATION. Light is conceptualised as a substance whose properties can be numerically catalogued.
Practice
Quiz
In which field is 'photometry' LEAST likely to be used?