Final answer:
Spectral data for common gases can be found in spectroscopic databases, including those provided by NASA or other scientific organizations. Key parameters in spectral analysis are λmax and absorbance, which indicate the specific wavelengths absorbed by gases and the extent of absorption, respectively. This information is crucial for aerospace engineering research and the search for extraterrestrial life.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find absorbance vs. wavelength spectra data (IR, Vis, UV) for common gases such as O, O2, N2, He, Ar, etc., a reliable method is to use spectroscopic databases maintained by scientific organizations or research institutions. These databases typically include detailed absorbance and transmission graphs showing how different substances interact with various wavelengths of light.
For instance, databases such as the Hitran database or databases associated with space agencies like NASA offer spectral data that are crucial for thermal and aerospace engineering research. Additionally, spectroscopy textbooks and peer-reviewed papers often contain spectral graphs, such as those illustrating the light transmitted through Earth's atmosphere, showing absorption by various molecules.
When examining spectrophotometer data, the two key points to identify are the λmax, the wavelength at which maximal light absorbance occurs, and the absorbance at that wavelength, which is calculated using the intensities of light before and after passing through the sample. These values aid in the analysis of the atmospheric constituents, providing insights into the presence of specific gases based on their characteristic absorption properties.
In the context of examining extraterrestrial atmospheres, which is important for identifying habitable planets or life, these types of spectral analysis are fundamental. The spectra also serve to aid in the design of instruments for detecting planets and analyzing their composition, as the signature of certain gases can indicate atmospheric conditions similar to those of Earth.