Modification of spectrum demonstration devices for recording with smartphones

Abstract

Modification of spectrum demonstration device for recording with smartphone was applied to support study of elemental spectra in chemistry laboratory at high school levels. Cheap and easy available materials were used to modify the spectrum demonstration devices produced by Gammaco (Thailand) Co., Ltd. The original device is a black wooden box for fixing a lamp source which is a gas containing glass tube, with fuse and plug for operation with 220 V, 50 Hz.  Various spectra are obtained by using different lamp sources sparked by high voltage generators. The new wooden box was made from plywood to form a bit larger box so that it can cover the original box and prevent interference from the outside stray light. The simple spectroscope was made from a hard paper roll as a cylindrical tube glued with a diffraction grating cut from a CD disc and a smartphone as the spectrum recorder. The fabricated spectroscope can take pictures of visible light from the sun and fluorescent lamps. Emission spectrum of tubes containing hydrogen, helium, mercury vapor, and neon, can be observed by the modified spectroscope without darkroom requirement. Photographs of spectra are easily taken with smartphones which can be connected to a projector in order to show the spectra images on screen in the classroom. The modified device is also applicable outside the classroom.