ekstinktsioonikõverid

Extinction curves, or ekstinktsioonikõverid in Estonian, are graphical representations of how the amount of light absorbed by a substance changes with wavelength. These curves are fundamental tools in various scientific fields, particularly in astronomy and chemistry, for identifying and characterizing materials. In astronomy, extinction curves are used to study the dimming of starlight as it passes through interstellar dust. The shape of the extinction curve provides clues about the composition and physical properties of the dust particles. Different types of dust, such as silicate or carbonaceous dust, exhibit distinct extinction curve profiles. By analyzing these curves, astronomers can infer the size distribution and chemical makeup of interstellar dust grains, which in turn influences star formation and the evolution of galaxies. In chemistry, extinction curves, often referred to as absorption spectra, are used to identify and quantify chemical compounds. Molecules absorb light at specific wavelengths corresponding to their electronic and vibrational transitions. The pattern of absorption peaks and their intensities on an extinction curve is unique to each substance, acting as a molecular fingerprint. This principle is applied in techniques like spectrophotometry and spectroscopy to analyze samples, monitor chemical reactions, and detect the presence of specific substances in various media, from solutions to the atmosphere. The shape and position of features on an extinction curve are crucial for accurate interpretation.