Calculating Photon Count from Xenon-Arc Lamp

In summary, the photon count from a Xenon-Arc Lamp is calculated by multiplying its irradiance by its spectral distribution. Irradiance refers to the amount of light energy falling on a surface, while spectral distribution refers to the energy distribution across different wavelengths. The power output of the lamp directly affects the photon count, and other factors such as age, temperature, and efficiency can also impact it. The photon count can be increased by increasing the lamp's power output or using optics, but there may be a limit to how much it can be increased.
  • #1
randomstuff2k
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Hi all!

Problem.
I have a light source (xenon-arc lamp) and wish to calculate the no. of photons emitted. It seems that I have to use chemical actionmetry (Potassium Ferrioxalate as Chemical Actinometer)? I need to know the no of photons emitted at all wavelengths given out by the lamp at a particular distance. Any ideas?

Hope you can help ;)
 
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  • #2


It is not possible to cover all wavelengths. You will have figure out what wavelengths you are really interested in and find an actinometer with a similar range or maybe slightly larger.
 

1. How is the photon count calculated from a Xenon-Arc Lamp?

The photon count from a Xenon-Arc Lamp is calculated by multiplying the lamp's irradiance (measured in watts per square meter) by the lamp's spectral distribution (measured in photons per joule). This calculation provides the total number of photons emitted by the lamp per unit time.

2. What is the difference between irradiance and spectral distribution?

Irradiance refers to the amount of light energy (in watts) that falls on a surface per unit area. Spectral distribution, on the other hand, refers to the distribution of light energy across different wavelengths. In the context of calculating photon count, irradiance is used to determine the total amount of light emitted by the lamp, while spectral distribution is used to determine the number of photons per unit energy.

3. How does the power output of a Xenon-Arc Lamp affect the photon count?

The power output of a Xenon-Arc Lamp directly affects the photon count, as the higher the power output, the higher the number of photons emitted per unit time. This is because the lamp's irradiance is directly proportional to its power output.

4. Are there any other factors that can affect the photon count from a Xenon-Arc Lamp?

Yes, there are a few other factors that can affect the photon count from a Xenon-Arc Lamp. These include the lamp's age, operating temperature, and optical efficiency. As the lamp ages, its irradiance and spectral distribution may change, resulting in a different photon count. Additionally, the lamp's operating temperature and optical efficiency can affect the amount of light emitted and the distribution of photons across different wavelengths, thus impacting the photon count.

5. Can the photon count from a Xenon-Arc Lamp be increased?

Yes, the photon count from a Xenon-Arc Lamp can be increased by increasing the lamp's power output or by using lenses or mirrors to focus and concentrate the light. However, it is important to note that the maximum photon count is limited by the lamp's design and capabilities, so there may be a point where increasing the power output or using additional optics will not significantly increase the photon count.

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