absorption spectrum a spectrum produced when electromagnetic radiation is absorbed by a sample. The frequencies of the radiation absorbed are those able to excite the atoms or molecules of the sample from their ground states to excited states. The frequency, ν, at which a particular absorption line occurs depends on the energy difference, ΔE, between
Low intensity ionizing radiation present on the surface of the earth and in the atmosphere as a result of cosmic radiation and the presence of radioisotopes in the earth’s rocks, soil, and atmosphere. The radioisotopes are either natural or the result of nuclear fallout or waste gas from power stations. Background counts must be taken