Colloidal stability is one of the most important criteria in the application strategy of colloidal nanoparticles in the continuous phase. The branches include ecology, involving coagulation as a purification method; medicine as nanocarriers; biology as blood coagulation, etc. A chemist versed in these concepts is a high-performing chemist in…

Light irradiance measurements are important for students grappling with abstract optical phenomena such as the inverse square law, polarization, diffraction, interference, and spectroscopy. A variety of commercial light sensors are available from scientific vendors such as the CI-6504A from PASCO scientific and the LS-BTA from Vernier Software and…

Background information and procedures are provided for an optics experiment related to diffraction order asymmetry. (JN)

Suggests experiments to help develop understanding of photoconductivity, photometry, and the inverse square law in optics. The design of a simple absorption colorimeter is also described. (DH)

This module is designed to give the learner an understanding of the nature of light and how its properties are used in the design of spectrophotometers. Problems promote the use of spectrophotometers in qualitative analysis, the optical elements used in a monochromator, and the physical properties of the prism and the diffraction grating. Other…

A television set, piece of aluminum foil, and meter stick can be used to estimate the speed of light within a few percentage points. The activity provides students with success and generates interest in physical optics. Steps in the experiment are outlined along with suggestions for obtaining accurate results. (DH)

Describes the function of the various parts of the microscope and their integration in the formation of an optical image. Presents a procedure for setting up a microscope to obtain maximum resolution and contrast for each objective lens at all magnifications. (JRH)

Describes fluorescence experiments demonstrating that emitted light is at longer wavelengths than absorbed light and that fluorescence decays rapidly when the source of excitation is removed. Systems whose acidic and basic forms have different fluorescent characteristics are used to demonstrate fluorescence visible and invisible to the naked eye.…

Examines techniques used to make ultrasensitive spectroscopic measurements. They include excitation, thermal lens, photo acoustic, and ionization spectroscopies. Guidelines and methods are provided for each technique; common uses and applications are explained. (DH)

Describes an apparatus developed for photochemical studies, particularly those involving the fluorescence of halogenated acetones. The apparatus is constructed from equipment normally found in a moderately sized physical chemical laboratory. Also provides background information on some aspects of the photophysics of halogenated propanones. (JN)

An experimental technique to develop inferential thinking in less scientifically-oriented community college students is described. Students activate unlabeled gas discharge tubes and identify the gases by comparing color photographs with spectrometer observations. Includes methods for taking color photographs of spectra. (SK)

Describes a number of activities designed to assist student understanding of the phenomenon of light bending when it passes from one meduim to another. (JR)

Describes the apparatus and procedures for conducting a simple speed of light experiment in an average laboratory using a laser source, a rotating mirror, and an oscilloscope. (SL)