CHEM 1A Lecture Notes - Lecture 35: Atomic Emission Spectroscopy, Absorption Spectroscopy, Black-Body Radiation
Document Summary
Instruments called spectrometers extend our senses so that we can see light of wavelengths outside of the visible region. Absorption and emission spectrometers are designed to investigate light interactions with matter. An absorption spectrometer has a light source, a monochromator, and a detector. The monochromator selects light of a specific wavelength so that absorption of light by a sample can be measured as a function of wavelength. Emission spectrometers rely on high temperature samples which under these conditions spontaneously emit light. An emission (e. g. flame emission) spectrometer is thus equipped with a monochromator and a detector. Spectrometers are used to identify atoms or molecules, to elucidate their structures, and to determine their concentrations. You should be able to: draw schematic diagrams and explain the functioning of the emission and absorption spectrometers. How do you find the answer to this question examining the infrared absorption spectra shown in class: more energy is required to stretch bonds than to bend bonds.
