A spectroscope is an instrument that measures the spectrum of light of objects. With a few simple supplies, you can create your own DIY spectroscope and make a rainbow from visible light. We love fun and doable physics activities for kids!
DIY SPECTROSCOPE
SAFETY NOTE: A couple of things should be cut/prepped ahead of time for safety if working with younger kiddos. Older kiddos may be able to help if you feel they have the ability to do so. Safety first!
SUPPLIES:
- Toilet paper tube
- Black tape
- Pencil
- Scissors
- CD or DVD
- X-acto knife
- Black paper
INSTRUCTIONS:
STEP 1: Line the inside of the tube with the tape. Fold over the ends of the tape.
STEP 2: Use the end of the tube to trace two circles from the black paper. Cut them out.
STEP 3: Cut out a tiny slit in one of the circles.
STEP 4: Cut out a small window in the other circle.
STEP 5: Cut out a section of the DVD and then carefully peel it into two pieces. Cut and attach the
clear piece to your small black window using tape.
STEP 6: Attach the two circles to each end of your spectroscope.
STEP 7: Find a light source in your house and look through the window toward the slit and turn it until you see a rainbow!
What colors can you see in the spectrum of light? Does the brightness of the colors change with various light sources?
Free Printable Spectroscope Project
WHAT IS A SPECTROSCOPE?
A spectroscope or a spectrograph is a scientific instrument used to study light’s properties. It breaks light down into different wavelengths, called a spectrum. It works similar to how a prism splits white light into a rainbow.
Astronomers use a spectroscope to analyze the composition of a substance, such as a gas or a star, by looking at the specific colors that make up its spectrum.
It helps astronomers and scientists study a wide variety of things, such as the composition of stars, planets, and galaxies or the properties of gases, by examining how the gas absorbs or emits light.
Make a spectroscope for a simple and fun physics experiment. Can you separate visible light into the colors of the rainbow? Let’s get started!
SCIENCE RESOURCES TO GET YOU STARTED
Here are a few resources that will help you introduce science more effectively to your kiddos or students and feel confident yourself when presenting materials. You’ll find helpful free printables throughout.
MORE FUN LIGHT ACTIVITIES
Click on the image below or on the link for more awesome and easy STEM projects for kids.
