A Spectrometer can be defined as a scientific instrument that serves the purpose of measuring the wavelengths of light over a vast range of the electromagnetic spectrum. The use of a Spectrometer can extend to the spectroscopic analysis of the sample materials. In other words, it can be described as a scientific device, used by scientists to gather and determine detailed information about a particular object or substance through the examination of its light properties.
The incident light of the light source can be transmitted, reflected, and even absorbed through the sample. Therefore, the changes and alterations which occur between the interactions in incident light with the sample disclose the sample characteristics.
Generally, there are two types of radiation sources that are generated within the spectrometer– which can be recognized as continuous and line sources.
- Continuous radiation sources are heated solid substances and lights which discharge light over a wide wavelength range
- The line radiation sources can be simplified as specialized lasers and lamps
HISTORY OF SPECTROMETER!
Before discussing in detail the various aspects of a Spectroscope, let us understand its origin and how it came into use.
The history of this scientific instrument takes us back to around 300 BC when the work began with spherical mirrors. It was in the 17th century when Isaac Newton invented the word which is known as spectrum. Spectrum was used to describe the wide range of colors that are formed through the scattering of light through a prism.
The use of initial spectrometers was witnessed in the 19th century by several scientists. Earlier, these devices used only small lenses and slits. This lets the light pass through the prism to refract the light into a spectrum, ready to be projected through a tube for its analysis.
Various Components of a Spectrometer:
- The Rhea:
A part which is defined as the most flexible spectroradiometer platform.
- The Filters:
Comprises of a filter wheel with four types of optical densities:
- OD1
- OD1.3
- OD2
- OD3
- The Slit:
Allows the light to enter and controls the resolution.
- The Concave Mirror:
This mirror reflects the beam of light and alters them to make them parallel before they finally reach the diffraction grating.
- The Grating:
Disperses individual spectral and splits the light.
- The Detector:
Another name for the detector is Charged Coupled Device.
Uses of a Spectrometer:
Some of the major applications of this device are as follows:
- Monitors the content of dissolved oxygen in marine ecosystems as well as freshwaters
- Studies and analyses the spectral emission line of the distant galaxies
- The portrayal of the proteins
- Analysis of drug absorption and discovery, distribution, and various pharmaceutical analysis
- Analysis of respiratory gas in medical institutions such as hospitals
- Exploration of space
LET US HAVE AN INSIGHT ON VARIOUS TYPES:
- Optical Spectrometer:
Optical Spectrometers work on the principle of optical dispersion. They signify the depth of light as a function of frequency. Furthermore, the deflection is caused by the diffraction in the diffraction grating.
- A Mass Spectrometer:
This type of scientific device is used to measure the type along with the chemicals present in the sample. This device measures the mass to charge ratio and the gas phase ions.
- A Magnetic Spectrometer:
The momentum of charged particles is measured by this scientific instrument. This process is possible by passing the particles through a magnetic field.
- UV Spectrometers:
This UV spectrometer also known as an ultraviolet spectrometer exposes the sample to ultraviolet light. Electrons are charged up to absorb the light energy. This device can be used to investigate the chemical bonding of the sample molecules.
- A Time of Flight Spectrometer:
This device is used to measure the energy spectrum of the particles by examining the time of flight amongst both the detectors.
Since you know all the major types of this scientific device, now you can easily search up the best Spectrometer Manufacturers and Spectrometer Suppliers in India to make a decision. Choose the device which will serve the purpose of fulfilling all the essential requirements.
WHAT FUNCTIONS DOES A SPECTROMETER SERVE?
- Initially, when the light is passed through this device, it fragments the light into its spectral components.
- The next function which they serve is to digitize the signal as a result of the wavelength to finally read it out and display the necessary information on the computer screen.
- Also, the spectrometer directs the light through a fiber optic cable which is known as an entrance slit.
- The slit is responsible for controlling the light as it enters the device
The Spectrometer Manufacturer and Spectrometer Supplier in India deal with various kinds of such devices which comprise all these integral functions which are inbuilt in the device.
SMARTPHONE SPECTROMETER! NEW IN LIST
In this current era of technology, there are several medical and scientific instruments such as eye testing machines and ultrasound probes which are collaborated within Smartphone technology.
One of the most current advancements in the technological sector is the Iphone cradle, discovered by researchers from Illinois.
The device here serves the purpose of detecting light in the sample liquid by using a series of phone cameras and optical parts. Moreover, the light spectrum is then further compared with the target molecules such as bacteria and toxins, thereby examining the characteristics of the sample.
It is indeed a treat to acknowledge the new advancements in the area of scientific study in our everyday lives.
