General Lab Information

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Spectroscopy

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Students explore the refraction of light using diffraction gratings, the same tool used inside scientific spectroscopes. Through observations, students discover that each chemical element produces a unique spectrum while developing an understanding of how scientists use light to identify elements.

Vocabulary: diffraction grating, electromagnetic spectrum, fluorescent, incandescent, prism, refract, spectrum, visible

Session Information: This activity is available in-person or virtually.

In-Person Session Information Virtual Session Information
  • Session times are Tuesday - Friday, 10 - 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 - 2 p.m.
  • Activities are pre-selected based on grade level
  • Up to two classes per session, maximum 30 students/class
  • Session times are Tuesday - Friday, 10 - 10:30 a.m., 11:15 - 11:45 a.m., and 12:30 - 1 p.m.
  • Select one activity
  • Up to two classes per session
  • Teachers will receive detailed Teacher Notes guide upon booking
  • Secure link to Zoom.gov videoconferencing platform will be provided

All in-person activities are interactive, hands-on student experiences guided by our instructors. All virtual activities are interactive, instructor-led experiences that are either facilitated with students using materials from school/home or demonstration-based if students do not have access to materials.

New York State Standards

New York State Science Learning Standards

Disciplinary Core Ideas

Crosscutting Concepts

Science and Engineering Practices

PS1.A: Structure and Properties of Matter

PS4.A: Wave Properties

Energy and Matter: Flow, Cycles, and Conservation

Structure and Function

Planning and Carrying out Investigations

Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

Engaging in Argument from Evidence

Next Genration English Language Arts Standards

Speaking and Listening

Language

Comprehension and Collaboration

Vocabulary Acquisition and Use

 

Contact

Workforce Development and Science Education Office
Brookhaven National Laboratory
Building 438
Upton, NY 11973-5000

About Us

Using the unique scientific tools and intellectual resources of Brookhaven National Laboratory, the Workforce Development and Science Education Office prepares the next generation of scientists, engineers, technicians, and educators. Our team comprises scientists, science educators, and engineers to develop and facilitate workforce development and education initiatives that support the scientific mission of Brookhaven Lab and the U.S. Department of Energy.


Program Audience

5th Grade