Spectroscopy is an important branch of science that deals with the interaction between electromagnetic wave and matter. It has found important application in nearly all fields of natural science including geoscience. In this course, we will cover a wide spectrum of this dynamic field of study. The course will start from fundamental understanding of the electromagnetic wave, basic crystallography and the interaction between electromagnetic wave and matters. Vibration spectroscopy such as Raman and infrared spectroscopy will be emphasized with practicals and project carried out on our in-house Raman spectroscopy instrument.

Contents:

Theoretical foundations of the interactions between light and condensed matter.

Point group symmetry and group theory.

Energy transitions in orbitals of valence electrons.

UV-vis, FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, how to setup a Raman spectrometer.

Basis in electronic spectroscopy such as XANES and EXAFS.

The course is highlighted by a practical with Raman spectroscopy with the purpose of mineral identification, process tracking, mapping, data evaluation. Possible student project options will be provides or you may design your own project based on your personal interest.

Important imformation:

The practical will be offered in the form of block course during semester break in August.