Discover
/
Article

Spectroscopy: Tool for science and technology

APR 01, 1949
From Newton’s curiosity about the “phenomenon of colors” there grew spectroscopy, until recently the physicist’s prime tool for exploring atomic structure, and now of ever growing usefulness to industry.
Ralph A. Sawyer

Spectroscopy has provided not only the information but the inspiration for some of the most striking advances in the knowledge of the nature of matter and of the structure of the atom and the molecule. Very early the spectrum stimulated the minds and the imagination of men; and spectroscopic research is one of the keys which has unlocked the secrets of the universe.

This article is only available in PDF format

More about the authors

Ralph A. Sawyer, University of Michigan.

Related content
/
Article
The ability to communicate a key message clearly and concisely to a nonspecialized audience is a critical skill to develop at all educational levels.
/
Article
With strong magnetic fields and intense lasers or pulsed electric currents, physicists can reconstruct the conditions inside astrophysical objects and create nuclear-fusion reactors.
/
Article
A crude device for quantification shows how diverse aspects of distantly related organisms reflect the interplay of the same underlying physical factors.
/
Article
Events held around the world have recognized the past, present, and future of quantum science and technology.
This Content Appeared In
pt-cover_1949_04.jpeg

Volume 2, Number 4

Get PT in your inbox

pt_newsletter_card_blue.png
PT The Week in Physics

A collection of PT's content from the previous week delivered every Monday.

pt_newsletter_card_darkblue.png
PT New Issue Alert

Be notified about the new issue with links to highlights and the full TOC.

pt_newsletter_card_pink.png
PT Webinars & White Papers

The latest webinars, white papers and other informational resources.

By signing up you agree to allow AIP to send you email newsletters. You further agree to our privacy policy and terms of service.