Chapter 21: Q5P (page 555)

Explain what is meant by the Doppler effect. Rationalize why Doppler broadening increases with increasing temperature and decreasing mass in Equation 21-5.

Short Answer

Expert verified

As the observer gets closer to the wave source, the Doppler Effect causes a shift in the wavelength or frequency of the wave. The Doppler Effect is one of the most prevalent reasons of line broadening in atomic absorption spectroscopy. When atoms move closer to the source of radiation than when they move away from the source of radiation, Doppler broadening occurs. When the temperature rises, so does the speed, causing the peaks to spread even further. The speed of the item reduces as its mass rises, resulting in less peak widening.

Step by step solution

Definition of spectroscopy.

Spectroscopy is a broad branch of research that examines and analyses the electromagnetic spectra produced by the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with matter as a function of wavelength or frequency.

The advantages and disadvantages of the inductively coupled plasma compared with a flame in atomic spectroscopy.

The Doppler Effect is defined as a shift in the wavelength or frequency of a wave as the observer moves closer to the wave source. In atomic absorption spectroscopy, the Doppler Effect is one of the most common causes of line widening. Doppler broadening occurs when atoms travel closer to the source of radiation than when they move away from the source of radiation. When the temperature rises, the speed rises, resulting in additional spreading of the peaks. As the mass of the object increases, the speed of the object decreases, resulting in less peak widening.