Final answer:
A spectrometer is a physics instrument used to separate and measure the spectral composition of light, consisting of various components including a light source, attenuator, monochromators, sample holder, detector, and readout device.
Step-by-step explanation:
A spectrometer is an instrument used in physics to separate and measure different wavelengths of light, allowing for analysis of the spectral composition of the light source. The components listed: light source, attenuator, primary monochromator, sample holder, secondary monochromator, detector, and readout device, are all integral parts of a spectrometer or spectrofluorometer. Specifically:
- The light source emits light that is to be analyzed.
- The attenuator controls the intensity of the light.
- The primary monochromator separates the light into its component wavelengths (spectrum).
- The sample holder is where the material or sample under study is placed.
- The secondary monochromator further refines the selection of wavelengths that reach the detector, which is often a feature of more complex or 'research-grade' instruments.
- The detector, like a charge-coupled device (CCD), captures the light wavelengths after they’ve interacted with the sample.
- The readout device displays the data collected by the detector for analysis.
This setup is essential in conducting experiments that require precise measurement of light properties for applications in both basic physics research and applied sciences.