Purpose:
Spectroscopy is the study of matter interacting with electro-magnetic radiation (e.g. Light). In this lab, we will separate some light sources in to constituent colors and find out the wavelength of some atomic emissions. We will also try to compare the line spectra found from gas discharge tubes and flame emissions. Finally, we will measure the absorbance of Copper sulfate solution as a function of wavelength.
Experimental Method:
We start our experiment by looking through a Spectroscope at the outside sunlight, a regular light bulb (incandescent) and a fluorescent light. This will give us a good observation on what is continuous and what will be Line spectra. During observation, it is recommended not to look directly in to the sun. We will then have to record the wavelengths for each line spectrum for the florescent light.
The next part of the lab session will be measuring the wavelengths of the line spectra of atomic emission spectra. There were three tubes presented which contain the vapor of Hydrogen, Helium and Mercury. These elements can glow when connected to a voltage. Using a spectroscope, we will determine the types of colors and the wavelengths of the individual lines, which are emitted by the respective atoms. We will also examine the atomic emission spectra of particles when heated with high temperatures. We use compounds of salts for this procedure. We will determine the colors produced and the wavelengths of individual lines that make up the colors. We will do one small observation using a low power HeNe laser. Was there a different observation on the spectroscope or is it the same as that of atomic emissions.
The last experiment for this session is to determine the absorption spectrum of Copper ion by measuring how much light is absorbed by the sample. First, we observe and record