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Analytical Chemistry
Scientists typically use analytical chemistry to determine the concentration of chemicals in a solution. Chemical compounds and solutions absorb light to different degrees; for example, water and vinegar look the same, but they have different levels of light absorption as measured by a UV spectrophotometer. Researchers can find the concentration of a chemical in a solution by using a UV spectrophotometer to measure how much light passes through the solution.
High Performance Liquid Chromatography
High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is the process of breaking down liquid compounds to their simplest chemical components. Before HPLC can break down the compound, the technician needs to determine the concentration of each component. To do this, he first uses a UV spectrophotometer. Also, to ensure that each component has been separated in its purest form, each of the separated liquids is examined with a UV spectrophotometer. The technician checks to ensure that each liquids has the same level of light absorption as controlled samples.
DNA and RNA Analysis
DNA and RNA, the nucleic acids in living cells that hold and transmit genetic information, naturally absorb UV light., so analysts can use UV spectrophotometry to determine the concentration of these nucleic acids in a given sample. Biochemists often use this method to make sure that DNA and RNA samples are ample enough for laboratory testing and procedures.
Monitoring Chemical Reactions and Bacteria Culture
Chemical reactions, especially in solutions, often produce color changes while the reaction is taking place. UV spectrophotometers can calculate the rate of the chemical reaction by continuously recording the amount of light the liquid absorbs while it's changing color. In bacteria culture, UV spectrophotometers can monitor the cloudiness of solutions to check the growth rate of bacteria.