The colorimeter is a device used for colorimetry. It measures the absorbance and transmittance of light waves through a liquid sample.[1] The amount of light transmitted or absorbed by the sample gives the concentration of a known solute in a test solution based on Beer-Lambert’s law.[1]
Figure: The diagram of a colorimeter.[2]
The main components of a colorimeter are:[3]
Figure: The detailed diagram of all parts of a colorimeter.[3]
1. Based on Size
2. Based on Filters
3. Based on Display
Colorimeters have wide applications in pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and clinical industries and labs. These are:[4]
Here’re some factors to consider if you want to purchase the right colorimeter design for your lab:
Figure: Portable Colorimeter.
The spectrophotometer is an instrument for performing quantitative analysis of a test sample based on the amount of light absorbed by its colored compounds.[5]
By measuring how much light is absorbed by a sample when a light beam passes through it, we can determine the concentration of a particular molecule or compound.[5]
Figure: An illustrative diagram of the principle of the spectrophotometer.[6]
The main components of a spectrophotometer include:[7]
Figure: Benchtop Spectrophotometer
Spectrophotometers have applications in industrial and commercial sectors, such as:
Though colorimeters and spectrophotometers operate similarly, many differences exist between them.[10] Here’s how they differ:
| Colorimeter | Spectrophotometer |
|---|---|
|
It measures how much light is absorbed by a particular solution. |
Light intensity is measured by transmittance based on color or wavelength |
|
Less sensitive |
More sensitive |
|
It offers psychophysical analysis |
It provides results by physical analysis |
|
Less complex design, lightweight, and rugged |
Heavy machine and more complex design |
|
In colorimetric data, tristimulus values XYZ, G, b, d, etc. are directly read and displayed |
Spectrophotometers can indirectly determine psychophysical characteristics |
|
Works only with visible light |
The device works with visible light, as well as infrared and ultraviolet light. |
Considering the difference, choose the device that better matches your applications and requirements.
Colorimeters and spectrophotometers are instruments used to analyze test samples by passing a light beam of a particular wavelength through the samples. Both instruments have a spectrum of applications in labs, industries, and clinical areas to analyze water, blood, nucleic acid, and other similar compounds.
Even with similar operations, both instruments have many differences in terms of applications, wavelength function, and design. Thus, while choosing a spectrometer or colorimeter, one needs to consider many factors like design, purpose, space, and budget.
Check out our advanced benchtop spectrophotometer if you’re looking for the best.
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