An optical instrument that measures and analyzes color by comparing it to standards or breaking light into its component wavelengths.
From 'color' plus Greek 'metron' (measure). The instrument was developed in the 19th century as optical science advanced, allowing precise color analysis.
Colorimeters are essential tools in quality control for everything from paint to pharmaceuticals—they can detect color differences so tiny that human eyes can't see them, which is how industries ensure consistency (like making sure every bottle of ketchup looks exactly the same red).
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