Spectroscopic Techniques

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to spectroscopic techniques, particularly focusing on spectrophotometric methods and principles.

Spectroscopy

The study of interaction of electromagnetic radiation with molecules in a sample for identification, quantification, and characterization.

Spectrophotometer

An electronic instrument used to measure the absorption or transmission of different wavelengths of light by a sample.

Absorption Spectroscopy

A technique where atoms or molecules absorb energy and are promoted to a higher energy state, allowing quantification and identification.

Emission Spectroscopy

A technique where excited atoms or molecules emit light as they return to a lower energy state, enabling identification based on characteristic wavelengths.

Scattering Spectroscopy

A method where atoms or molecules redirect electromagnetic radiation, causing polarization of light or changes in spectral features.

Beer-Lambert Law

A linear relationship between absorbance and concentration of a substance in a solution, given by the equation A = εbc.

Chromophore

The part of a molecule responsible for light absorption; different chromophores exhibit different energy gaps.

Electronic Transition

Movements of electrons between different energy levels within a molecule due to absorption of electromagnetic radiation.

Bathochromic Shift

A shift to longer wavelengths (red shift) that occurs when energy gaps are reduced, allowing for absorption at longer wavelengths.

Hypsochromic Shift

A shift to shorter wavelengths (blue shift) that occurs when energy gaps are increased, resulting in absorption at shorter wavelengths.