Raman spectroscopy is a non-destructive analytical technique used to observe vibrational, rotational, and other low-frequency modes in a system, providing a molecular fingerprint of materials. It is based on inelastic scattering of monochromatic light, usually from a laser, where the frequency of photons in monochromatic light changes upon interaction with a sample.

Raman Spectroscopy

Raman spectroscopy

non-destructive analytical technique

Vibrational modes refer to the characteristic ways in which the atoms in a molecule oscillate relative to each other, influenced by the molecule's symmetry and structure. These modes are crucial for understanding molecular properties such as infrared and Raman spectroscopy, as they determine how molecules absorb and scatter light.

Vibrational Modes

Rotational modes refer to the quantized rotational energy levels of molecules, which are significant in determining the spectroscopic characteristics of gases. These modes are crucial for understanding molecular dynamics and are influenced by factors such as moment of inertia and molecular symmetry.

Rotational Modes

low-frequency modes

molecular fingerprint of materials

Inelastic scattering is a process where the kinetic energy of an incident particle is not conserved, resulting in energy being transferred to internal degrees of freedom, such as excitations or vibrations, of the target. This phenomenon is crucial for understanding material properties and interactions at the atomic and molecular levels, with applications in fields like spectroscopy and condensed matter physics.

inelastic scattering

Monochromatic light refers to light of a single wavelength or color, often produced by lasers or specific filters. It is crucial in scientific applications like spectroscopy and interferometry, where precise wavelength control is needed for accurate measurements.

monochromatic light

A laser is a device that emits light through a process of optical amplification based on the stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation. Lasers are characterized by their coherence, monochromaticity, and ability to focus light to a high degree of intensity, making them useful in a wide range of applications from medicine to telecommunications.

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