Tech Compare: Single vs. Double Beam Spectrophotometers

 Tech Compare: Single vs. Double Beam Spectrophotometers

by Michelle Taylor

Spectrophotometers measure light intensity as a function of wavelength and are commonly used to measure the concentration of a compound in an aqueous solution. Depending on the type of spectrophotometer, different wavelengths of light can be analyzed.

While wavelength range and detection limits are undoubtedly the most important factors to consider when selecting a proper spectrophotometer, there are other important criteria such as:

  • The density, shape, or size of the product you wish to measure
  • Analytical working range
  • Sample throughput
  • Data quality
  • Customizable and/or pre-configured method options
  • Measurement time1

There are two main types of spectrophotometers: single beam and double beam. As their names indicate, the major difference between the two instruments is the number of beams of light used in analysis.

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