UV-Visible Spectroscopy

A UV/visible spectrophotometer is a device used to measure the transmittance or absorbance of a sample as a function of the wavelength of the electromagnetic spectrum. This module covers the fundamental scientific principles behind UV-visible spectroscopy, the principles of the instrumentation, and practical tips for optimizing the instrument parameters.

Topics include:

• Bonding theory for UV-visible spectroscopy
• The electromagnetic spectrum
• Origin of UV-visible spectra
• Transmittance and absorbance
• Selection rules and intensity
• UV-visible chromophores
• UV-visible absorption maxima of chromophores
• UV-visible definitions
• UV-visible instrumentation
• Optical arrangements of UV-visible spectrophotometers
• UV-visible instrument configuration
• Key UV-visible instrument parameters: spectral resolution and selectivity
• Accuracy and precision
• Linear dynamic range, calibration, and drift
• UV-visible sample handling and measurement
• Choice of solvent, and effect of solvent, concentration, pH, and temperature on UV-visible spectroscopy
• Troubleshooting UV-visible spectroscopy