Selecting the Right Source for Ultraviolet (UV) Spectroscopy

Which source is commonly used as a continuum source in ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy?

1. Tungsten lamp
2. Mercury arc lamp
3. Deuterium lamp
4. Globar
5. Hollow cathode lamp

Answer:

Out of the sources mentioned, the deuterium lamp is commonly used as a continuum source in ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy.

Ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy is a valuable analytical technique used in various scientific fields. When it comes to selecting a source for UV spectroscopy, it is important to consider the characteristics of each type of lamp.

The deuterium lamp is a popular choice for UV spectroscopy because it emits light in the UV range, which is essential for this type of analysis. The lamp contains a deuterium gas-filled tube that produces a continuous spectrum of light when an electric current is passed through it. This continuous spectrum is crucial for accurate measurements in UV spectroscopy.

One of the advantages of the deuterium lamp is that the light produced is stable and does not fluctuate, ensuring consistent results. Additionally, the intensity of the light can be easily controlled, making it convenient for various experiments.

In contrast, tungsten lamps emit light mostly in the visible and infrared range, making them unsuitable for UV spectroscopy. Mercury arc lamps emit light in the UV range, but their spectrum is discontinuous, which can lead to inaccuracies in measurements.

Other sources like globar and hollow cathode lamps are not commonly used as continuum sources in UV spectroscopy. Therefore, when performing UV spectroscopy, it is recommended to choose a deuterium lamp as the preferred source for reliable and accurate results.