Spectrophotometers

A spectrophotometer is a measuring device that quantifies the absorption or transmission of light by a substance.

How do spectrophotometers work?

The light source generates a spectrum of light that is required for the analysis. A monochromator filters out a specific wavelength. The light is then passed through the sample, which partially absorbs or transmits it depending on its chemical properties. A detector measures the intensity of the transmitted light in order to calculate the absorption.

Areas of application:

- Diagnostics: determination of substances such as glucose, cholesterol or nucleic acids.

- Microbiology: Cell growth measurement (optical density) and virus quantification.

- Research: Analysing enzyme reactions, biomolecule purity and metabolic pathways.

- Pharmacology: drug analyses and release studies.

- Environmental and water analysis: Detection of pollutants and chemical compounds.