Abstract

Optical spectroscopy is an invaluable tool for the characterization of many physical and chemical components and processes. It can provide complex and quantitative data and use it to precisely characterize a wide variety of physical objects or chemical analytes. Instruments can not only achieve much higher spectral resolution compared to eyes, but can also cover a much wider wavelength range and, if desired, even provide time- or distance-resolved results. A major advantage of optical methods of analysis is that they are usually nondestructive, noninvasive, and quick in operation. In optical spectroscopy, electromagnetic radiation in the range of 10¹²–1015 Hz is most commonly used, covering infrared (IR), visible (VIS), and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Optoelectronic devices detect the interactions of this electromagnetic radiation with matter.