A topic from the subject of Nomenclature in Chemistry.
Spectroscopy is a powerful tool that can be used to identify and characterize atoms, molecules, and ions. Spectroscopic techniques are used in a wide variety of applications, including environmental analysis, medical diagnostics, materials science, and chemical analysis.
Spectroscopic techniques measure the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with matter. The resultant spectra are often complex, and a systematic approach to naming and classifying the various spectral features is essential for effective communication among spectroscopists.
Spectroscopic terminology is based on the type of electromagnetic radiation used and the nature of the interaction between the radiation and the sample. Spectroscopy can be divided into two main branches: atomic spectroscopy and molecular spectroscopy.
Atomic spectroscopy deals with the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with atoms, while molecular spectroscopy deals with the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with molecules. The electromagnetic spectrum is divided into several regions, each with its own characteristic wavelength range and energy.
The most common spectroscopic techniques include:
Each spectroscopic technique has its own unique set of nomenclature rules. The nomenclature of spectroscopy is a vast and complex topic, but the key points outlined above provide a basic understanding of the subject. For more detailed information, please refer to the references listed below.
Pavia, D. L., Lampman, G. M., & Kriz, G. S. (2001). Introduction to spectroscopy (3rd ed.). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole.
Skoog, D. A., Holler, F. J., & Crouch, S. R. (2007). Principles of instrumental analysis (6th ed.). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole.
Harris, D. C. (2007). Quantitative chemical analysis (8th ed.). New York: W. H. Freeman and Company.
Spectroscopy is the study of the interaction between electromagnetic radiation and matter. Spectroscopic techniques are used in analytical chemistry to identify and quantify substances. The nomenclature of spectroscopy is a system of rules used to name different types of spectroscopy techniques. This experiment will demonstrate the application of spectroscopic nomenclature using a simple atomic emission experiment with a sodium lamp.
The following table shows the measured wavelengths for the sodium doublet, along with the spectroscopic technique used (atomic emission spectroscopy in this case).
| Spectroscopy Technique | Wavelength (nm) |
|---|---|
| Atomic Emission Spectroscopy | 589.0 (approx.) |
| Atomic Emission Spectroscopy | 589.6 (approx.) |
Note: The values are approximate and will vary slightly based on experimental setup and conditions.
The nomenclature of spectroscopy is crucial for clear and unambiguous communication among scientists. The specific technique used (e.g., Atomic Emission Spectroscopy, AES; Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy, AAS; Infrared Spectroscopy, IR; etc.) is critical because each technique provides different information about the sample. The wavelengths recorded allow for identification of the emitting species (in this case, sodium). The intensity of the emission lines can be related to the concentration of the sodium in the lamp.
This experiment demonstrated a simple application of spectroscopic nomenclature and techniques. The observation and identification of the sodium doublet using atomic emission spectroscopy illustrate the principle of using spectroscopic techniques to identify and potentially quantify substances based on their characteristic wavelengths of emitted or absorbed radiation.