Absorption, in optics, is the process by which the energy of a photon is taken up by another entity, for example, by an atom whose valence electrons make a transition between two electronicenergy levels. The photon is destroyed in the process. Molecules can lose absorbed energy by heat and radiation. Absorption is often measured by spectroscopy. See also list of optical topics. ... For the Science Fiction weapon, as seen in Star Trek, see Photon torpedo. ... Properties For alternative meanings see atom (disambiguation). ... Valence is a scientific term in chemistry to describe electrons in the outermost orbital. ... Properties The electron is a subatomic particle. ... A quantum mechanic system can only be in certain states, so that only certain energy levels are possible. ... A molecule is the smallest particle of a pure chemical substance that still retains its chemical composition and properties. ... A red-hot iron rod cooling after being worked by a blacksmith. ... Radiation has a variety of different meanings. ... Spectrum of fluorescent lights showing prominent mercury peaks. ...
Based upon the known cross-section of this absorption line [18] and the observed value for the noise in the determination of the ring-down time, the instrument should be able to detect water vapor at a few parts per trillion (ppt) levels in nitrogen or other inert gases.
Based upon the known cross section of this absorption line [18] and the observed value for the noise in the determination of the ring-down time, the instrument should be able to detect water vapor at a few ppt levels in nitrogen or other inert gases.
This absorption coefficient is related to the number density by a known factor, the cross-section of the line.