This project is designed to apply the mathematical principles of precision measurement, units and unit conversion, algebra, and trigonometry by constructing a working optical spectrometer. Once completed, the spectrometer can be used to investigate the visible optical spectrum of various lights, filters, and reflectors. Visible light occupies a small portion of the electromagnetic spectrum between 700 and 400 nanometers in wavelength and comprises the full rainbow of colors red through purple. This spectrometer will display the wavelengths correctly on an internal nanometer scale. The information in turn has direct impact on energy efficiency in lighting and perceived color in areas such as photography, cinematography, apparel, and architecture. Spectrometers are also used in industry for analyzing the properties of matter.
Linear and angular precision measurement is required to layout the spectrometer top, bottom, and baffle from supplied or developed CAD drawings. Unit conversions, algebra, and trigonometry are required to produce the internal nanometer wavelength scale. Careful constructions techniques are necessary to complete the spectrometer.
Note: This project can be supplied in kit form eliminating some or all the mathematic rigor when the investigation of emitted, reflected, or filtered light is the primary application.
