Fluorescence Spectrometry is a scientific technique used to analyze samples in various fields such as medicine, biology, and chemistry. Its pronunciation is /flʊəˈrɛsəns spɛkˈtrɒmɪtri/ according to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The word fluorescence is pronounced /flʊəˈrɛsəns/ with a silent "s" and emphasis on the second syllable. Spectrometry is pronounced /spɛkˈtrɒmɪtri/ with emphasis on the first and third syllables. This technique involves shining light on a sample and measuring the emitted fluorescent light to identify the sample's properties.
Fluorescence spectrometry is a scientific technique utilized to measure and analyze the fluorescent properties of a sample. It involves studying the emission of light from a substance when it absorbs electromagnetic radiation. This technique is widely used in various fields such as chemistry, biochemistry, physics, and biology for both qualitative and quantitative analysis.
In fluorescence spectrometry, a sample is typically exposed to a specific wavelength of light, known as the excitation wavelength. This excitation energy promotes electrons in the sample to higher energy levels. As the electrons return to their original energy levels, they emit light of longer wavelength, known as the emission wavelength. The emitted light is then detected and measured using a spectrometer.
The collected fluorescence data can provide valuable information about the sample's molecular structure, concentration, and interactions. By comparing the emission spectrum of a sample to known standards or reference materials, scientists can identify and quantify specific compounds or substances present in the sample.
Fluorescence spectrometry offers several advantages over other analytical techniques, such as high sensitivity, selectivity, and non-destructiveness. It is particularly useful in studying fluorescent molecules, such as dyes and proteins, as well as in applications such as environmental monitoring, drug discovery, forensic analysis, and medical diagnostics.
Overall, fluorescence spectrometry is a powerful and versatile analytical tool that provides valuable insights into the properties and behavior of fluorescent substances, aiding researchers in various scientific disciplines.
The word "fluorescence" is derived from the Latin word "fluere", meaning "to flow". It was first used by the English scientist Sir George G. Stokes in 1852 to describe the phenomenon of certain substances emitting light when subjected to specific wavelengths of light. The term "spectrometry" is derived from the Latin word "spectra", meaning "specter" or "apparition", and the Greek word "metron", meaning "measure". It refers to the scientific method of obtaining a spectrum (a display of light components) and analyzing it to determine various properties of a substance. Therefore, "fluorescence spectrometry" combines the concept of emission of light (fluorescence) with the analysis of the emitted spectrum (spectrometry).