Pronunciation: [ˌanθɹɐkˈɒmɪtə] (IPA) 
The word "anthracometer" refers to a device that measures the quality of coal or other fossil fuels. The spelling of this word can be broken down using IPA phonetic transcription as: /ænθrəˈkɒmɪtə/ - "an" sounds like "æ" in "cat", "thra" rhymes with "bra", "co" sounds like "kə" in "duck", and "meter" is pronounced "mɪtə". Remembering the sequence of these sounds can help in correctly spelling and pronouncing "anthracometer".
An anthracometer is a specialized instrument or device used to measure the carbon content or carbonization property of a substance, particularly for solid fuels like coal or anthracite. The term "anthracometer" is derived from "anthracite," a type of coal known for its high carbon content.
The primary purpose of an anthracometer is to determine the fixed carbon content, which is essentially the carbonaceous residue left after the volatile components of a fuel have been driven off through heat treatment or combustion. This measurement is crucial in determining the quality and suitability of coal for industrial or energy production purposes. The instrument typically consists of a combustion chamber or furnace, where a precise amount of the sample is heated under controlled conditions.
Anthracometers utilize various techniques to measure the carbon content. One common method involves comparing the weight loss of the sample due to the removal of volatile matter with the total weight. Another technique is to analyze the gases released during combustion and estimate the carbon content based on their composition. Advanced anthracometers can also incorporate spectroscopic or chromatographic methods to determine carbonization properties accurately.
The data provided by an anthracometer is essential for assessing the efficiency or performance of solid fuels and can aid in the selection of appropriate coals for specific industrial processes. By measuring the carbon content, fuel producers, engineers, or researchers can better understand the combustion behavior, energy content, and potential environmental impacts of solid fuels.
An instrument for determining the amount of carbon dioxide in the air or other gaseous mixture.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "anthracometer" is derived from two Greek roots: "anthrakos", meaning "coal", and "metron", meaning "measure". Therefore, the etymology of "anthracometer" can be understood as a combination of these roots to form a word that refers to an instrument used to measure or gauge the properties or characteristics of coal.
