Question

Wavelengths in ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy are commonly expressed in nanometers; wavelengths in infrared spectroscopy are sometimes expressed in micrometers. Carry out the following conversions. (a) \(2.5 \mu \mathrm{m}\) to nanometers (b) \(200 \mathrm{~nm}\) to micrometers

Short answer

Question: Convert the following wavelengths: a) 2.5 μm to nm and b) 200 nm to μm. Answer: a) 2.5 μm = 2500 nm, b) 200 nm = 0.2 μm.

Step-by-step solution

Identify conversion factor

The conversion factor between micrometers and nanometers is 1 \(\mu\)m = 1000 nm. This factor will be used to convert 2.5 μm to nm.

Apply the conversion factor

To convert 2.5 μm to nm, multiply the given value by the conversion factor: \(2.5 \mu \mathrm{m} \times \frac{1000 \mathrm{nm}}{1 \mu \mathrm{m}}\)

Simplification and result

After simplification, the converted value in nanometers is: \(2.5 \times 1000 \mathrm{nm} = 2500 \mathrm{nm}\) #b) Conversion of 200 nm to μm#

Identify conversion factor

The conversion factor between nanometers and micrometers is 1 nm = 0.001 \(\mu\)m. This factor will be used to convert 200 nm to \(\mu\)m.

Apply the conversion factor

To convert 200 nm to \(\mu\)m, multiply the given value by the conversion factor: \(200 \mathrm{nm} \times \frac{1 \mu \mathrm{m}}{1000 \mathrm{nm}}\)

Simplification and result

After simplification, the converted value in micrometers is: \(200 \times 0.001 \mu \mathrm{m} = 0.2 \mu \mathrm{m}\)