Fluorescence spectroscopy, pronounced /flʊəˈrɛs(ə)ns spɛkˈtrɒskəpi/, is a scientific technique that involves using light to excite electrons and generate light emission from a sample. The spelling of the word "fluorescence" is based on the Latin word "fluor," meaning flow or flux, and the Greek word "escence," meaning emission. The IPA phonetic transcription helps to clearly explain the pronunciation of each syllable in the word, making it easier to articulate for individuals who are not familiar with the term.
Fluorescence spectroscopy is a technique used to analyze and measure the emission of light by a substance when excited by a specific wavelength of light or other energy source. It is based on the principle of fluorescence, which is the absorption of a photon at a certain energy level followed by the subsequent emission of a lower-energy photon.
In fluorescence spectroscopy, a sample is illuminated with a specific wavelength of light, known as the excitation wavelength, which excites the electrons within the sample to higher energy levels. As the excited electrons return to their ground state, they emit photons of lower energy, called fluorescence emission. The emitted light is then measured using a detector, and the resulting fluorescence spectrum provides valuable information about the sample's molecular structure, composition, and electronic properties.
This technique is widely used in various scientific fields, including chemistry, biology, and material science, due to its high sensitivity, non-invasive nature, and ability to provide detailed information about specific molecules.
Fluorescence spectroscopy allows researchers to analyze the characteristics and behavior of fluorescent molecules, such as fluorescent dyes or natural fluorophores, and study processes like energy transfer, molecular dynamics, and protein-protein interactions. It is utilized in various applications, including drug discovery, environmental monitoring, DNA sequencing, protein folding studies, and medical diagnostics.
Overall, fluorescence spectroscopy is a powerful analytical tool that enables scientists to investigate the fluorescent properties of substances and gain a deeper understanding of their molecular properties and behaviors.
The word "fluorescence" is derived from the Latin word "fluor" which means "flow" or "to flow". It was coined by Sir George Stokes in 1852 when he observed certain minerals emit light after being exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The emitting light appeared to "flow" from the material.
The term "spectroscopy" is derived from the Greek words "spectron" meaning "ghost" or "apparition", and "skopein" meaning "to look" or "to see". It was first used by Sir Isaac Newton in the 17th century to describe his experiments with prisms and the splitting of light into its component colors.