polarimeters
A polarimeter is an instrument used to measure the angle of rotation of polarized light as it passes through a sample. This rotation occurs when light interacts with chiral substances, which are molecules that have non-superimposable mirror images. Polarimeters are commonly used in chemistry and biochemistry to analyze the concentration and purity of solutions.
The device typically consists of a light source, a polarizer, a sample holder, and an analyzer. By adjusting the analyzer, users can determine the specific rotation of the sample, which helps in identifying and quantifying substances like sugars and amino acids.