pycnometer

[ pik-nom-i-ter ]

noun

1. a container used for determining the density of a liquid or powder, having a specific volume and often provided with a thermometer to indicate the temperature of the contained substance.

pycnometer

/ ˌpɪknəˈmɛtrɪk; pɪkˈnɒmɪtə /

noun

1. a small glass bottle of known volume for determining the relative density of liquids and solids by weighing

Derived Forms

• pycnometric, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of pycnometer¹

First recorded in 1880–85; pycno- + -meter

Example Sentences

Pycnometer, pik-nom′e-tėr, n. an instrument for determining the specific gravity of solid bodies.

From Project Gutenberg

Two typical forms are in use; in one a liquid is prepared in which the crystal freely swims, the density of the liquid being ascertained by the pycnometer or other methods; in the other a liquid of variable density, the so-called “diffusion column,” is prepared, and observation is made of the level at which the particle comes to rest.

From Project Gutenberg