Atomic spectroscopy is the study of atoms/ions through their interaction with electromagnetic radiation, in particular, interactions in which radiation is absorbed or emitted with an internal rearrangement of the atom's electrons. Discusses nature of this field, its status and future, and how it is applied to other areas of physics. (JN)

Describes procedures for preparing acetylacetonate complex of cobalt(II), followed by spectrophotometric analysis to characterize the material, with additional characterization methods supplied by students to provide open-ended dimension for the experiment. (SK)

Describes a laboratory experiment which introduces basic principles and experimental techniques of mass spectrometry for fourth year undergraduate (B.Sc.) students. Laboratory procedures, background information, and discussion of results are provided for the experiment in which the natural isotopic abundance of chlorine is determined. (Author/JN)

Provides instructions for producing a spectrum in the secondary science classroom. Offers suggestions for using the spectrum and discusses how to make a rainbow using a garden hose or houseplant sprayer. (JN)

Most students do not know how to determine the equilibrium constant and estimate the error in it from spectrophotometric data that contain experimental errors. This "dry-lab" experiment describes a method that may be used to determine the "best-fit" value of the 1:1 equilibrium constant to spectrophotometric data. (Author/JN)

Presents and discusses a procedure for estimating the dissociation energies of diatomic molecules by taking into account experimentally observable parameters. (CS)

Presents an experiment used in laboratory technician training courses to illustrate the quantitative use of infrared spectroscopy which is based on industrial and laboratory procedures for the determination of vinyl acetate levels in ethylene vinyl acetate packaging films. Includes three approaches to allow for varying path lengths (film…

Compares and contrasts effects of two spectroscopic techniques on bromine and iodine vapor. (CS)

Describes an undergraduate laboratory experiment that demonstrates the value of shift reagent use in producing a first-order spectrum of trans-retinol. (CS)

Provides explanations for the variations in appearance of spectra taken at different pressures and cell lengths. (CS)

Briefly discusses new instrumentation in the field of analytical chemistry. Advances in liquid chromatography, photoacoustic spectroscopy, the use of lasers, and mass spectrometry are also discussed. (CS)

Describes various ground/space techniques and instruments used in space studies. Also describes space phenomena observed, for example, pulsars and galaxies. (SK)

Presents equations and techniques for calculating and interpreting many of the spectroscopically important parameters associated with the ground and second excited states of the iodine molecule. (Author/CS)