Beer-Lambert Law Calculator

This calculator is designed for advanced chemistry students and professionals to compute absorbance or concentration using the Beer-Lambert Law. It helps in understanding how light absorption by a solution is related to its concentration and path length.

Interactive Calculator

Results

Absorbance: 0.00

Data Source and Methodology

All calculations are based on the Beer-Lambert Law as detailed in 'Principles of Instrumental Analysis' by Skoog et al. (ISBN: 978-1-305-57721-3).

All calculations are rigorously based on the formulas and data provided by this source.

The Formula Explained

\( A = \epsilon \cdot c \cdot l \)

Where:

  • \( A \) is the absorbance
  • \( \epsilon \) is the molar absorptivity in L/mol·cm
  • \( c \) is the concentration in mol/L
  • \( l \) is the path length in cm

Glossary of Variables

How It Works: A Step-by-Step Example

Consider a solution with a concentration of 0.5 mol/L, a path length of 1 cm, and a molar absorptivity of 200 L/mol·cm. The absorbance is calculated as follows:

\( A = 200 \times 0.5 \times 1 = 100 \)

The solution has an absorbance of 100 under these conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Beer-Lambert Law?

The Beer-Lambert Law relates the attenuation of light to the properties of the material through which the light is traveling.

Why is molar absorptivity important?

Molar absorptivity is a constant that indicates how well a substance absorbs light at a particular wavelength, crucial for calculating absorbance.

How do I measure path length?

Path length is typically the width of the cuvette used in a spectrophotometer, usually 1 cm.

Can the Beer-Lambert Law be applied to all solutions?

It is generally applicable to dilute solutions where the solute does not cause scattering of light.

What units should I use for concentration?

Concentration should be expressed in mol/L for consistency with the formula and standard practice.

Tool developed by Ugo Candido. Content verified by CalcDomain Expert Team. Last reviewed for accuracy on October 1, 2023.

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