Colorimetry is the analysis of chemical samples to collect information about their concentration. It involves passing light through a sample and measuring how much is absorbed by the solution, using equipment like a spectrophotometer to measure as precisely as possible. The technique may be one of several tests performed on a sample to determine its composition, check for quality and clarity, or demonstrate scientific principles in a classroom. Manufacturers of scientific instruments produce a range of instruments for this purpose.
Before a sample can be tested, the equipment needs to be calibrated to make sure it is working properly. A chemist may start with a clear solution to check for stray light and other problems. Vials containing a solution of known composition and concentration can also be used as a baseline or reference sample. These allow technicians to check the equipment and make any necessary adjustments before they start working with an unknown or questioned sample, to confirm that the measurements will be accurate.
To set up for colorimetry measurements, the technician mounts the vial or beaker in a holding clip and passes light through it. A filter must be used on the light to select the appropriate wavelength for the given solution, based on color. The equipment measures the amount of light absorbed, providing information about the concentration of the solution. This can be charted on a graph, and a number of formulas can be used in colorimetry to turn the data into a meaningful measurement.
Samples may behave unpredictably. They need to be well mixed to ensure the solution is evenly distributed, or the light absorption may not be even. In addition, some may have particles of material that interfere with the movement of light through the sample, in which case the measurement may be off as well. Technicians can carefully inspect an unknown sample before testing to determine if it will behave consistently in colorimetry testing.
This term can also be used to describe the science of human color perception. In this form of colorimetry, researchers examine how people perceive color and distinguish between colors. This is important for activities ranging from designing monitors with appropriate resolution to learning about how colorblind people perceive the world around them. A variety of equipment can be used to measure color intensity and distribution to determine how people may interact with an environment or work of art like a painting or photograph.
By Mary McMahon
Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a All The Science researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.