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etalon

etalon

1 9.9
A device with two flat mirrors that checks or controls the color of light
  • noun
  • /ˈɛtəlɒn/
  • Specialized
: etalon
  • An etalon is often used in laser systems to select specific frequencies of light.

Examples

  • The laboratory technician adjusted the etalon to ensure accurate wavelength measurements.

  • The scientist used an etalon to measure the light wavelength precisely.

  • By calibrating the equipment with an etalon, the researchers improved the precision of their experiment.

  • How does an etalon work in controlling light wavelengths?

  • The physicist used an etalon to accurately measure the wavelength of the laser light.

  • Scientists often rely on an etalon for calibrating their optical instruments.

  • In the laboratory, an etalon helps ensure precise measurements of light frequencies.

Surface Forms

etalon singular
etalons plural

Etymology

Etalon comes from the French word étalon, which means 'standard' or 'gauge'. In optics, an etalon is a very precise 'standard' made from two parallel mirrors, so the origin helps explain why it is used to measure the wavelength of light.