Ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy (UV-vis) is a reliable and accurate analytical laboratory assessment procedure that allows for the analysis of a substance. Specifically, ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy measures the absorption, transmission and emission of ultraviolet and visible light wavelengths by matter.

In the chemistry laboratory, ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy (UV-vis spectroscopy) is used to study molecules and inorganic ions in solution. Although they are distinct regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, the ultraviolet and visible regions of the electromagnetic spectrum are linked in UV-vis spectroscopy because similarities between the two regions allow many of the same research techniques and tools to be used for both regions.

Ultraviolet and visible light comprise only a small portion of the wide ranging electromagnetic radiation spectrum. Although lower in frequency--and therefore lower in energy--than cosmic, gamma or X-rays, ultraviolet and visible light are of a higher frequency and, therefore of higher...