spectroscopy

[ spek-tros-kuh-pee, spek-truh-skoh-pee ]
/ spɛkˈtrɒs kə pi, ˈspɛk trəˌskoʊ pi /

noun

the science that deals with the use of the spectroscope and with spectrum analysis.

Origin of spectroscopy

First recorded in 1865–70; spectro- + -scopy

OTHER WORDS FROM spectroscopy

spec·tros·co·pist [spek-tros-kuh-pist] /spɛkˈtrɒs kə pɪst/, noun

Words nearby spectroscopy

spectropolariscope, spectroradiometer, spectroscope, spectroscopic analysis, spectroscopic binary, spectroscopy, spectrum, spectrum analyser, spectrum analysis, spectrum disorder, specular

British Dictionary definitions for spectroscopist

spectroscopy
/ (spɛkˈtrɒskəpɪ) /

noun

the science and practice of using spectrometers and spectroscopes and of analysing spectra, the methods employed depending on the radiation being examined. The techniques are widely used in chemical analysis and in studies of the properties of atoms, molecules, ions, etc

Derived forms of spectroscopy

spectroscopist, noun

Medical definitions for spectroscopist

spectroscopy
[ spĕk-trŏs′kə-pē ]

n.

The study of spectra, especially experimental observation of optical spectra.

Other words from spectroscopy

spec•tros′co•pist n.

Scientific definitions for spectroscopist

spectroscopy
[ spĕk-trŏs′kə-pē ]

The analysis of spectra, especially light or mass spectra, to determine properties of their source.♦ In light or optical spectroscopy, the spectrum of a light source is analyzed through a spectroscope to determine atomic composition of a substance. In astronomy, phenomena such as red shift can also be analyzed.♦ In mass spectroscopy, a spectroscope is used to determine the composition of ions or charged molecules in a sample. Spectroscopy is also called spectrography. See also atomic spectrum spectroscope.

Cultural definitions for spectroscopist

spectroscopy
[ (spek-tros-kuh-pee) ]

The branch of science devoted to discovering the chemical composition of materials by looking at the light (and other kinds of electromagnetic radiation) they emit. Scientists use spectroscopy to determine the nature of distant stars and galaxies as well as to identify and monitor the production of products in factories.