Absorption spectrum

Definition

An absorption spectrum is a graph showing the wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation absorbed by a substance, with each peak indicating specific energies at which electrons in the molecules transition to higher energy levels. It is a unique fingerprint for identifying molecular structures in organic chemistry.

Related terms

Spectroscopy:

The study of the interaction between matter and electromagnetic radiation as a function of wavelength or frequency.

Electromagnetic Spectrum:

The range of all types of electromagnetic radiation, from gamma rays to radio waves, including visible light.

Infrared Spectroscopy:

A technique that uses the infrared portion of the electromagnetic spectrum to analyze and identify substances based on their chemical bonds and molecular vibrations