In FTIR spectroscopy, what is the purpose of the interferometer?
Practice Questions
Q1
In FTIR spectroscopy, what is the purpose of the interferometer?
To amplify signals
To separate wavelengths
To create an interference pattern
To cool samples
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
In FTIR spectroscopy, what is the purpose of the interferometer?
Step 1: Understand that FTIR stands for Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, which is a technique used to analyze materials.
Step 2: Know that an interferometer is a device that splits light into two paths and then combines them again.
Step 3: Realize that when the two light paths are combined, they create an interference pattern, which is a unique pattern of light and dark areas.
Step 4: Understand that this interference pattern contains information about the sample being analyzed.
Step 5: Learn that the interference pattern is then processed using a mathematical technique called Fourier Transform to produce a spectrum.
Step 6: Conclude that the purpose of the interferometer is to create this interference pattern, which is essential for obtaining the spectrum of the sample.
