Galvanometer, England, 1921
A galvanometer measures small electric currents. It is sometimes used during physiological experiments studying muscle contractions. Electrodes placed upon the body pick up minute electrical impulses. These cause a string within the galvanometer to move. Movement is recorded photographically to make a tracing. The galvanometer is one of the earliest instruments used to detect and record electrical activity in the heart. It forms the basis of electrocardiograph machines.
Object number:
1979-731/1
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: cardiology
The study of diseases affecting the heart and blood vessels.
Glossary: galvanometer
An instrument for detecting and measuring small electric currents.