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Lab 10: How can measurements of light spectra provide insights into the nature of matter and the characteristics of living systems? 

Spectroscopy—Exploring Emission, Absorption & Evolutionary Adaptation

In this two-week lab, students use a variety of spectroscopes (rudimentary to high-tech) to explore emission and absorption of light.  Examining the Hydrogen spectrum, students investigate the Bohr model of the atom—in particular the electron level transitions that result in the Lyman, Balmer, and Paschen series.  Students then explore how different combinations of sources and filters affect observed spectra, including everyday filters such as water or sunglasses.  Using this accumulated knowledge, students hypothesize which environmental factors may have constrained the evolution of the spectrum that is visible to the human eye and gather evidence to support the plausibility of their hypotheses.

Pre-requisite readings:

• Three models of light 
• Color and light 

Please wear bright, solidly-colored clothing for this lab. If you have sunglasses, please bring them. (We can figure out if the 'UV-blocking' lenses really work!)

File for Students:

• Lab 10: How can measurements of light spectra provide insights into the nature of matter and the characteristics of living systems?

File for TAs:

• Lab 10: TA Guide

Kim Moore, Spring 2014