A fluorescence spectrophotometer is used in fluorescence spectroscopy to determine the fluorescence spectrum of a sample, which can help identify its composition. It contains a monochromator and a detector to record emission spectra. It can also record excitation spectra, which are useful in studying the absorption of light in a sample. An example of its use is in studying the fluorescence composition of scorpions. Fluorescence should not be confused with phosphorescence, which stores light and gradually releases it.
A fluorescence spectrophotometer, also known as a fluorometer, is a scientific instrument used in fluorescence spectroscopy to determine the fluorescence spectrum of a sample. This spectrum is then analyzed to provide or confirm identification of the sample composition. A fluorescence spectrophotometer can often be found in chemical, biochemical and medical laboratories to assist in the analysis of organic compounds.
Fluorescence spectroscopy is the study of the fluorescence of a sample. When some compounds are passed through light, in this case ultraviolet (UV) light, they emit low-level radiation, often revealed as visible light. The resulting fluorescence contains varying wavelengths and, therefore, observing its emission and excitation spectra can be used to help identify elements within the compound.
A fluorescence spectrophotometer traditionally contains a monochromator with a diffraction grating or a filter that serves as a diffraction grating. Monochromators are scientific instruments that allow the user to select a particular wavelength of light using a diffraction grating. Once the excitation wavelength is selected, it is focused on the sample, exciting the molecules within it to fluorescence. A detector is placed at a 90° angle from the excitation light so as not to contaminate the result with the excitation light. The result is an emission spectrum.
Many types of fluorescence spectrophotometers can record both a fluorescence spectrum and an excitation spectrum. Excitation spectra are the result of holding the emission wavelength at a particular value, instead of a constant excitation wavelength. This spectrum is then passed through many different wavelengths and the results are recorded for later analysis. The intensity of the fluorescence is proportional to the light absorption in the sample, making the two types of spectra identical.
An example of the use of a fluorescence spectrophotometer is to study the fluorescence composition of the scorpion under UV light. It is not known why scorpions fluoresce under ultraviolet radiation, and this is one area of biological study that remains unanswered. Scientists in California have shown that this fluorescence can help scorpions recognize and detect UV light.
Do not confuse fluorescence with phosphorescence. Fluorescent material emits radiation under UV light as a result of the absorption of a photon which excites electrons in the material. When the light is turned off, the material no longer glows. Phosphorescent materials store light and then gradually release it. This is why fluorescent objects continue to glow, even when the lights are off.
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