Virtual Chemistry Experiments

Spectrophotometry

Topic	Concepts	Experiment
Spectrophotometry	The basic principles of spectrophotometry and the operation of a spectrophotometer are explained.	The transmittance and absorbance are measured for a sample. A blank is used to calibrate the spectrophotometer.
Absorbance Spectrum	The absorbance spectrum is described and its importance explained.	The absorbance spectrum for a sample is measured.
Effect of Cell Path Length	The significance of the cell path length is discussed.	The effect of the cell path length on transmittance and absorbances is explored.
Effect of Concentration	The significance of the analyte concentration is discussed.	The effect of the analyte concentration on transmittance and absorbances is explored.
Beer's Law	Beer's Law is presented and explained.	A plot of absorbance vs concentration is prepared, and the molar absorptivity is determined from the slope of the plot.
Analysis of an Unknown Solution	The construction of a calibration curve is described, and the use of a calibration curve in determining the analyte concentration in an unknown solution is explained.	A calibration curve is prepared and used to determine the analyte concentration in an unknown solution.