The correct spelling of the word "absorption cell" is [(əbˈsɔːpʃən sɛl)]. The first syllable is pronounced with a short schwa sound [(ə)], followed by the stressed syllable -sorb- pronounced with an open o [(ɔː)]. The final syllable -pti- is pronounced with a silent b, and the sound -shun- is represented by -sion in the spelling. Finally, the word ends with a voiced l sound [(l)] pronounced with the tongue touching the teeth ridge.
An absorption cell is a specialized device used in spectroscopy to analyze the absorption of light by various substances. It is comprised of a cylindrical cell that contains a sample substance, such as a gas or a liquid, which is transparent to the specific wavelength of light being analyzed.
The absorption cell is designed to facilitate the passage of light through the sample substance, allowing for the measurement of its absorption characteristics. The cell is typically made of a high-quality material, such as quartz or glass, that ensures minimal interference and absorption of the light being transmitted.
The absorption of light by the sample substance in the cell is primarily determined by the molecular properties of the substance, including its structure, concentration, and temperature. By measuring the amount of light absorbed at specific wavelengths, analysts can gain valuable insights into the composition and properties of the substance being studied.
Absorption cells are commonly used in various fields, including chemistry, physics, and environmental science. They are particularly useful in the study of molecular spectra, where they allow researchers to detect and identify specific molecules based on their unique absorption patterns.
In summary, an absorption cell is a device used in spectroscopy that enables the measurement of light absorption by different substances. It consists of a cylindrical cell containing the sample substance, allowing for the analysis of its absorption characteristics and providing valuable information about its molecular composition.
The term "absorption cell" combines the words "absorption" and "cell". Each word has its own etymology:
1. Absorption: The noun "absorption" comes from the Latin word "absorptio", which means "a swallowing up" or "an absorption". This Latin term is derived from the verb "absorbere", meaning "to swallow up" or "to devour".
2. Cell: The word "cell" has multiple origins. In the context of scientific instruments, such as an absorption cell, the term "cell" refers to a container or chamber that holds a sample or substance to be measured. The usage of "cell" in this sense originated in the late 19th century from the Latin word "cella", which means "storeroom" or "small room".