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Spectroscopy & spectrometry

Spectrophotometer: Parts and Theory

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Learn about the parts of a spectrophotometer and the Beer-Lambert Law. Explore the relationship between concentration and absorbance, and the relationship between wavelength.

Learning outcomes

  • Identify key external and internal parts of a spectrophotometer
  • Explore the effect of sample concentration on initial intensity, final intensity and absorbance value - all in relation to the Beer-Lambert law
  • Select an appropriate test wavelength for given absorbance spectra
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Skills

Designing and Planning Experiments

  • How to select an appropriate wavelength to measure the absorbance of a particular substance

Using Instruments and Equipment

  • What are the main components of a spectrophotometer 
  • What is the function of the three key internal components, the light source, the filter and the detector

Interpreting and Analysing Data

  • What is described by an absorbance spectra

Concepts, Principles and Theories

  • How absorbance is calculated 
  • What the relationship is between concentration and initial intensity of light, final intensity and absorbance
  • How the different light and sample variables relate to the Beer-Lambert equation

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Details

Degrees

Biochemistry
Biological science
Biomedical science
Forensic science
Pharmacological science

Modules

Biological chemistry
Microbiology
Ecology & evolution
Pharmacology

Topic

Spectroscopy & spectrometry

Purchase option

Bioscience LabSim Library

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