Spectroscopy Using the Tracker Video Analysis Program Documents
Spectroscopy has important applications in many fields and
deserves more attention than is the norm in introductory optics
labs. This poster describes a set of inexpensive, quantitative
spectroscopy experiments that use a digital camera to capture
images of spectra and Tracker to measure their intensity
profiles. The spectra, produced by a diffraction grating in
front of the camera lens, include two laser spots with known
wavelengths for calibration. Tracker's line profile tool
generates a "live" plot of relative intensity versus wavelength,
enabling students to interactively explore the spectra in
detail. Experiments include gas and laser line spectra, thermal
spectra, color filters and absorption, and fluorescence.
Supported in part by NSF grant #DUE-0126439 Last Modified
December 1, 2009 This file is included in the full-text index.