Why can't sodium vapour lamp be used in spectrometer experiment

In summary, the conversation discusses working with a spectrometer to find the refractive index of a prism for various colors. The use of a mercury vapor lamp is preferred over a sodium vapor lamp due to concerns about eye safety and the ability to see all colors, including ultraviolet. The difference between the two spectra is also mentioned.
  • #1
harini_5
36
0
i was working with a spectrometer and the aim of the experiment was to find the refractive index of a prism for various colors.
i was asked specifically to use mercury vapor lamp and was insisted not to use sodium vapour lamp.
why is it so?
 
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  • #2
harini_5 said:
for various colors.
How many colors are in a Na vapor lamp?
How many in an Hg
 
  • #3
And the ones you can't see in Hg can be a eye safety concern. i.e. Ultraviolet.

Hopefully precautions are being taken.
 
  • #4
mgb_phys said:
How many colors are in a Na vapor lamp?
How many in an Hg

sir can u please tell me the difference between the two spectra,interms of colors etc?
 
  • #5
FG04_03.jpg

http://physics.uoregon.edu/~jimbrau/astr122/Notes/Chapter3_4.html"
 
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  • #6
dlgoff said:
FG04_03.jpg

http://physics.uoregon.edu/~jimbrau/astr122/Notes/Chapter3_4.html"

A wonderful illustration of why mercury is preferable to sodium.
 
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1. Why is a sodium vapour lamp not suitable for use in a spectrometer experiment?

A sodium vapour lamp emits light in a very narrow range of wavelengths, specifically those corresponding to the bright yellow color of sodium. This limited range of wavelengths does not allow for accurate analysis of a sample's full spectrum, making it unsuitable for use in a spectrometer experiment.

2. Can a sodium vapour lamp be used as a light source in a spectrometer?

While a sodium vapour lamp can technically be used as a light source in a spectrometer, it is not ideal. Its limited range of wavelengths means that it will not accurately represent the full spectrum of a sample, making it less reliable for scientific analysis.

3. What are some alternatives to using a sodium vapour lamp in a spectrometer experiment?

There are several alternatives to using a sodium vapour lamp in a spectrometer experiment, including using a white light source, such as a halogen lamp, or a laser. These sources emit a wider range of wavelengths, allowing for more accurate analysis of a sample's spectrum.

4. Are there any benefits to using a sodium vapour lamp in a spectrometer experiment?

While a sodium vapour lamp is not ideal for use in a spectrometer experiment, it does have some benefits. Its narrow range of wavelengths can be useful for identifying specific elements, such as sodium, in a sample. However, for a more comprehensive analysis, other light sources should be used.

5. What other factors should be considered when choosing a light source for a spectrometer experiment?

When choosing a light source for a spectrometer experiment, factors such as stability, intensity, and reliability should be considered. The light source should also emit a wide range of wavelengths to accurately represent the full spectrum of the sample being analyzed. Other practical considerations, such as cost and availability, should also be taken into account.

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