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Photonics Dictionary

laboratory instruments and supplies

Optical laboratory instruments and supplies are essential tools and materials used in laboratories for studying and manipulating light and its properties. These instruments are widely used in research, medical diagnostics, engineering, and various scientific applications. 

Optical laboratory instruments:

Microscopes:

Compound microscopes: Used for magnifying small objects, typically biological specimens.

Stereo microscopes: Provide a 3D view of the sample, used for dissection and inspection.

Confocal microscopes: Offer high-resolution imaging and depth selectivity.

Spectrometers:

UV-Vis spectrometers: Measure the absorbance and transmittance of UV and visible light by a sample.

Infrared (IR) spectrometers: Analyze the IR spectrum for molecular identification and analysis.

Raman spectrometers: Used for studying vibrational, rotational, and other low-frequency modes in a system.

Interferometers:

Michelson interferometer:
Measures the interference of light waves to determine small distances or changes in distance.

Fabry-Pérot interferometer:
Used for high-resolution spectroscopy.

Lasers:

Gas lasers (e.g., CO2, He-Ne): Used in spectroscopy, medical applications, and material processing.

Solid-state lasers (e.g., Nd, diode lasers): Used in precision cutting, engraving, and various laboratory experiments.

Optical fibers:

Single-mode fibers:
Used in telecommunications and high-precision sensors.

Multi-mode fibers: Used for short-distance communication and imaging.

Photometers:
Measure the intensity of light, used in various analytical applications.

Polarimeters:
Measure the angle of rotation caused by passing polarized light through an optically active substance.

Refractometers:
Measure the refractive index of liquids and solids.

Optical laboratory supplies:

Optical lenses:

Convex lenses:
Converge light rays to a focal point.

Concave lenses: Diverge light rays away from a focal point.

Optical filters:

Bandpass filters: Allow only a specific range of wavelengths to pass through.

Neutral density filters: Reduce the intensity of light without altering its spectral distribution.

Mirrors:

Plane mirrors: Reflect light without altering its path.

Concave and convex mirrors:
Focus or diverge light rays.

Prisms: Used to disperse light into its component wavelengths or change the direction of light.

Beam splitters: Split a beam of light into two or more separate beams.

Diffraction gratings: Disperse light into its component wavelengths for spectral analysis.

Optical coatings: Applied to lenses, mirrors, and other optical components to enhance their performance by reducing reflection or increasing transmission.

Optical mounts and holders: Used to securely hold and position optical components.

Optical fibers and connectors: Used for transmitting light signals in optical experiments and communication systems.

Light sources:

Tungsten halogen lamps:
Provide a broad spectrum of light.

LEDs: Offer specific wavelengths with high efficiency.
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