Calorimeter

Dictionary of Biological Psychology

A calorimeter is a chamber, entirely closed from the outside world, in which one can house an animal and record its body heat. It is used to determine the METABOLIC RATE of small animals—calorimeters for use by large animals (including humans) are used, but less often.

Calorimetry is the process of taking such recordings. BOMB CALORIMETRY involves determining the amount of energy present in something by burning it in a sealed unit—a bomb calorimeter—and measuring the heat given off. This is a process occasionally used to determine the energy composition of animal carcasses.