Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A spectrophotometer is an instrument that measures the amount of light absorbed by a sample at different wavelengths. It is essential for analyzing the absorption spectra of pigments involved in photosynthesis.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
The spectrophotometer quantifies the light absorption of chlorophyll and other pigments.
It helps determine the specific wavelengths of light most effectively used in photosynthesis.
Absorption spectra obtained from a spectrophotometer can show peaks corresponding to chlorophyll's optimal absorbance wavelengths.
This tool can be used to measure changes in pigment concentration during various stages of photosynthesis.
Calibration with a blank sample is necessary to ensure accurate measurements.