Build your own spectrophotometer using LEGO!
ESRs involved: ESR 2: Vishal Kumar Jaiswal, ESR 3: Martha Yaghoubi Jouybari, ESR 9: Maria Elena Castellani, ESR 14: Irene Ponzo, ESR 15: Marialucrezia Losito
|
Appropriate for students
between 20-25 |
|
Subject of the experiment
Chemistry, Spectroscopy |
|
Length
150 minutes |
Hypothesis: With regard to the principles of absorption spectroscopy, the Beer−Lambert law is derived by considering that the loss of light traversing an absorbing material is proportional to the amount of light present initially, −dI/dx ∝ I. This is shown directly using the first configuration of the experiment and also offers an opportunity to explain why exponential functions are so common in physical sciences.
Objectives:
Introduction: In this laboratory experience, students will gain basic knowledge on absorption spectroscopy with a simple, low-cost instrument using interlocking bricks and few optical components that can (with minimal changes) function as both a spectrophotometer and fluorometer. The spectrometer allows the collection of semiquantitative data, requiring both data analysis and calibration, as these are essential components of practical spectroscopy.
Objectives:
- Understand the principles of absorption spectroscopy, together with the concepts of absorbance and molar extinction coefficient.
- Provide a visual and quantitative validation of the Beer−Lambert law.
- Develop their scientific inquiry skills.
- Know the meaning of spectrophotometer, absorption spectrum, Beer-Lambert law concept.
Introduction: In this laboratory experience, students will gain basic knowledge on absorption spectroscopy with a simple, low-cost instrument using interlocking bricks and few optical components that can (with minimal changes) function as both a spectrophotometer and fluorometer. The spectrometer allows the collection of semiquantitative data, requiring both data analysis and calibration, as these are essential components of practical spectroscopy.
Feedback: Have any questions arisen, are there suggestions for improving the experiment, is something unclear, or do you just want to share your experience? Use our interactive Feedback Comment Box now and share your feedback. Our ESRs look forward to your feedback and are happy to answer your questions.
