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Spectroscopic Simulator
This applet covers an aspect of the Physical Chemistry II course that students
often find confusing. Although it is based on relatively simple mathematics, a
complete understanding of the phenomenon requires assimilating the following
concepts:
- The energy levels of a diatomic molecule are given by the formula:
- E(v,J) = hv (v + ½) + BJ (J + 1); v = 0..infinity, J=0..infinity
- A molecule absorbs light at frequencies that correspond to difference
between energy levels. In this case, we are interested in the following
differences, frequency of light:
- E (v = 1, J') - E (v = 0, J); with J' = J + 1 or J -1
- The intensity of the transition is proportional to the population of the
lower state, intensity is proportional to:
- J (J + 1) exp[-E (v = 0, J) / kT]
Many students are comfortable with these separate concepts,
but find it difficult to combine them together to produce an
understanding of rovibrational spectroscopy. This applet simulates an
infra-red spectrometer, allowing students to adjust the experimental and
molecular parameters and observe the effects on the infra-red spectrum. Students
may use the applet to first focus on each of the individual concepts, within
the context of the actual experiment, and then to integrate these concepts
into a coherent whole.
Run the applet >>
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