How do instruments calculate things using absorption of light?

[Nerdydude101]

Supposedly devices use special algorithms to determine specific things about an object by its absorption or reflection of light, how exactly would such equations work? (if this isn't calculus then please tell me and ill post it somewhere else, i wasn't sure what type of mathematics this would be)

 

[adjacent]

Supposedly devices use special algorithms to determine specific things about an object by its absorption or reflection of light, how exactly would such equations work? (if this isn't calculus then please tell me and ill post it somewhere else, i wasn't sure what type of mathematics this would be)

Provide an example of a device of that kind.

 

[Nerdydude101]

Watch the video
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/903107259/scio-your-sixth-sense-a-pocket-molecular-sensor-fo

 

[Sunfire]

Google "differential reflectometry", for instance

 

[alphy]

The use of absorption of light in instruments is based on the principles of spectroscopy, which is the study of the interaction between light and matter. Spectroscopy involves the use of mathematical equations to analyze the absorption, emission, or scattering of light by a sample.

The process of calculating things using absorption of light involves measuring the intensity and wavelength of light that is absorbed by a sample. These measurements are then compared to a known standard or calibration curve, which is based on the properties of the sample being studied.

The equations used in spectroscopy are based on the Beer-Lambert Law, which states that the amount of light absorbed by a sample is directly proportional to the concentration of the absorbing substance and the path length that the light travels through the sample. This law can be expressed as A = εlc, where A is the absorbance, ε is the molar absorptivity coefficient, l is the path length, and c is the concentration of the sample.

Instruments such as spectrophotometers, which are commonly used in spectroscopy, use these equations to calculate the concentration of a sample by measuring the absorbance of light at different wavelengths. The instrument then uses these measurements to create a spectrum, which is a graphical representation of the absorption of light at different wavelengths.

In addition to the Beer-Lambert Law, other mathematical techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy are also used to analyze the absorption of light by a sample. These techniques involve complex mathematical algorithms to interpret the data and provide information about the chemical composition and structure of the sample.

In conclusion, the use of absorption of light in instruments involves the application of mathematical equations and algorithms to analyze the interaction between light and matter. These techniques play a crucial role in various fields of science, including chemistry, biology, and environmental science, and continue to advance our understanding of the world around us.