spectroscopy

[ spek-tros-kuh-pee, spek-truh-skoh-pee ]

noun

1. the science that deals with the use of the spectroscope and with spectrum analysis.

spectroscopy

/ spɛkˈtrɒskəpɪ /

noun

1. the science and practice of using spectrometers and spectroscopes and of analysing spectra, the methods employed depending on the radiation being examined. The techniques are widely used in chemical analysis and in studies of the properties of atoms, molecules, ions, etc

spectroscopy

/ spĕk-trŏs′kə-pē /

1. The analysis of spectra, especially light or mass spectra, to determine properties of their source.
2. ◆ In light or optical spectroscopy , the spectrum of a light source is analyzed through a spectroscope to determine atomic composition of a substance. In astronomy, phenomena such as red shift can also be analyzed.
3. ◆ In mass spectroscopy , a spectroscope is used to determine the composition of ions or charged molecules in a sample. Spectroscopy is also called spectrography.
4. See also atomic spectrum

spectroscopy

1. The branch of science devoted to discovering the chemical composition of materials by looking at the light (and other kinds of electromagnetic radiation ) they emit. Scientists use spectroscopy to determine the nature of distant stars and galaxies as well as to identify and monitor the production of products in factories.

Derived Forms

• specˈtroscopist, noun

Other Words From

• spec·tros·co·pist [spek-, tros, -k, uh, -pist], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of spectroscopy¹

First recorded in 1865–70; spectro- + -scopy

Example Sentences

"Several features in the data are also still unidentified, warranting additional spectroscopy to interpret our observations fully."

From Science Daily

Using methods such as hydrogen production measurements and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, the team gathered a more detailed understanding of how HydF works and, in particular, the role of specific amino acids.

From Science Daily

Light measurement devices called optical frequency combs have revolutionized metrology, spectroscopy, atomic clocks, and other applications.

From Science Daily

He said he trusts Kroutil completely because he is one of the world’s preeminent experts in spectroscopy and he shares his frustration about the plane not flying sooner.

From Seattle Times

This method, known as secondary eclipse spectroscopy, is similar to that used by other research teams to search for atmospheres on other rocky exoplanets, like TRAPPIST-1 b.

From Science Daily