Definition

The study of light and its interaction with matter, often used to analyze the composition of substances by observing their spectra.

Example

Scientists use spectroscopy to identify the chemical makeup of distant stars.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of spectroscopy?

Yeah, I think it's related to studying light, right?

Exactly! It's really fascinating how it helps analyze different materials.

I should look into it more; it sounds like a cool science topic.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Spectroscopy → It is formed from "spectro-" (from Greek "spektros", meaning to look or see) and "-scopy" (from Greek "skopein", meaning to examine or observe). The word refers to the examination of light and its spectrum.

Memory Tip

Think of 'looking' ('spectro-') at different colors and 'examining' ('-scopy') them — that's what spectroscopy is all about.

Visually Confused Words