The most distinctive feature of the dual-wavelength spectrophotometer is the presence of two monochromators, the outputs from which are directed to a single sample, again traditionally via a chopper mirror. Rather. A monochromator is an optical device that transmits a mechanically selectable narrow band of wavelengths of light or other radiation chosen from a wider range of wavelengths available at the input. The name is from Greek mono- 'single'; chroma 'colour' and Latin -ator 'denoting an agent'. With the spectrophotometer, the amount of a known chemical substance (concentrations) can also be determined by measuring the intensity of light. Dual wavelength is used in many microplate-based applications to reduce optical interference caused by scratches, fingerprints, or other matter that absorb light equally at both wavelengths. For example, many investigators prefer to read microplate-based assays with lids or membrane seals in place.
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