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  Home > JCE Print > Journal of Chemical Education > Issues > 2007  > August  >
In the Laboratory
Optical Properties of Fluorescent Mixtures: Comparing Quantum Dots to Organic Dyes
Benjamin M. Hutchins, Thomas T. Morgan, Miné G. Ucak-Astarlioglu, and Mary Elizabeth Williams
Department of Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802
Cover
August 2007
Vol. 84 No. 8
p. 1301

Abstract
Using eye catching demos and the size-dependent properties of quantum dots (QDs) we can appeal to a broad range of students, from high school and general chemistry students to those in more advanced chemistry and physics courses. This experiment is easily tailored to meet the requirements of the instructor and equipment availability. Visually observed fluorescent colors of QDs in conjunction with spectroscopic data show students the additive emission of QD mixtures. Although some mixtures appear to emit white light, their fluorescence peaks remain spectroscopically resolved; this is not possible using organic dyes. More advanced topics on inorganic synthesis and energy transfer can be discussed for students of higher levels.
Supplement
Notes for the instructor, demonstration techniques, handouts and answer keys for the beginning and advanced undergraduate student lab, and sample data are available.
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Citation
Hutchins, Benjamin M.; Morgan, Thomas T.; Ucak-Astarlioglu, Miné G.; Williams, Mary Elizabeth. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 1301.
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Keywords
Analytical Chemistry; Demonstrations; Dyes / Pigments; First-Year Undergraduate / General; Fluorescence Spectroscopy; Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives; High School / Introductory Chemistry; Inorganic Chemistry; Interdisciplinary / Multidisciplinary; Laboratory Instruction; Materials Science; Nanotechnology; Photochemistry; Physical Chemistry; Qualitative Analysis; Second-Year Undergraduate; Spectroscopy; Upper-Division Undergraduate; UV-Vis Spectroscopy
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History
Created:
Last Updated:
6/22/2007
7/5/2007
 Caution! 
Experiments, laboratory exercises, lecture demonstrations, and other descriptions of the use of chemicals, apparatus, instruments, computers, and computer interfaces are presented in the Journal of Chemical Education as illustrative of new or improved ideas or concepts in chemistry instruction and are directed at qualified teachers. Although every effort is made to assure and encourage safe practices and safe use of chemicals, the Journal of Chemical Education cannot assume responsibility for uses made of its published materials. Many chemicals are hazardous. Precautions for the safe use of hazardous chemicals and directions for their proper disposal are described in the Material Safety Data Sheets and on the labels. We strongly urge all those planning to use materials from our pages to make choices and to develop procedures for laboratory and classroom safety in accordance with local needs and situations.
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