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About This Simulation
Build your own spectrophotometer to measure the absorbance of a reaction product on Mars!
Learning Objectives
- Summarize how a spectrophotometer is used to measure absorbance data
- Link the major components of a spectrophotometer to their functions within the instrument
- Choose a useful wavelength for measuring a compound of interest using absorbance spectrum data
- Suggest a protocol for measuring the absorbance of a given substance using a spectrophotometer
- Apply the Beer-Lambert equation to absorbance data to determine substance concentration
About This Simulation
Lab Techniques
- Spectrophotometry
Related Standards
- Support for spectrophotometer introductions
- Generic support for spectrophotometer introductions
- Generic support for spectrophotometer introductions
Learn More About This Simulation
Determine a solution's concentration using light! In this simulation, you will build your own spectrophotometer - a machine that measures how much light is absorbed by a solution. Using the spectrophotometer and Beer-Lamberts law, you will be able to determine how much product is made after you add a new Martain catalyst to your reaction.
Build your spectrophotometer
Go under the hood of the spectrophotometer to understand how its components fit together. Try out different configurations of the components and see how they impact the light's path. The complexity of the spectrophotometer you build will increase over three levels going from a linear setup of three components, to a non-linear setup with six components. Can you figure out what each component does, and how they all work together in the finished instrument?
Operate a spectrophotometer and collect your own data
Once you’ve successfully built your instrument, it’s time to try it out! To get started, you’ll need to interpret spectra to determine the optimal wavelength your reaction product absorbs. Once you’re ready, set the baseline, and you’re off! Observe how the absorbance changes when you increase the reactant and catalyst concentration. Then link these changes in absorbance back to the amount of product and reaction rate.
Build confidence in applying Beer-Lambert Law to your data
Throughout the simulation, the different conceptual elements of Beer-Lambert law are explained as the spectrophotometer’s function is explored. Will you be able to rise to the final challenge, and convert your absorbance data into concentration data using Beer-Lambert's law?
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For Science Programs Providing a Learning Advantage
North Dakota State College of Science
“They did the simulation at home, then completed the in-person lab within 30 minutes, no questions asked, and passed the quiz with flying colors.”
Lecturer in Human Physiology
University of Westminster
"I saw some of the students who clearly didn’t necessarily like sitting there reading a book discover they could turn on Labster and keep up with the rest of the class because it spoke to them.
Modesto City Schools
"Having something that's engaging for the students gives teachers that opportunity to breathe and get excited again. Because they're seeing the kids light up, they're seeing the kids engage with content."
Wenatchee Valley College
"The question always is, ‘Can we demonstrate that the students are meeting course outcomes?’ Check! We can do that.”
San José State University
"We surveyed over 400 students. More than 90% thought Labster was easy to navigate, and that it was fun, but more importantly, most of them felt confident that they could execute the labs in person. And that confidence is a big deal."
FAQs
Find answers to frequently asked questions.
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A Labster virtual lab is an interactive, multimedia assignment that students access right from their computers. Many Labster virtual labs prepare students for success in college by introducing foundational knowledge using multimedia visualizations that make it easier to understand complex concepts. Other Labster virtual labs prepare learners for careers in STEM labs by giving them realistic practice on lab techniques and procedures.
Labster’s virtual lab simulations are created by scientists and designed to maximize engagement and interactivity. Unlike watching a video or reading a textbook, Labster virtual labs are interactive. To make progress, students must think critically and solve a real-world problem. We believe that learning by doing makes STEM stick.
Yes, Labster is compatible with all major LMS (Learning Management Systems) including Blackboard, Canvas, D2L, Moodle, and many others. Students can access Labster like any other assignment. If your institution does not choose an LMS integration, students will log into Labster’s Course Manager once they have an account created. Your institution will decide which is the best access method.
Labster is available for purchase by instructors, faculty, and administrators at education institutions. Purchasing our starter package, Labster Explorer, can be done using a credit card if you are located in the USA, Canada, or Mexico. If you are outside of North America or are choosing a higher plan, please speak with a Labster sales representative. Compare plans.
Labster supports a wide range of STEM courses at the high school, college, and university level across fields in biology, chemistry, physics, and health sciences. You can identify topics for your courses by searching our Content Catalog.