Smartphones are incredible pieces of technology. They’re complex computers that give us the entire span of the internet at our fingertips. But, they are cold machines that lack the ability to interact with the world surrounding us every day. That is, until now. Using quantum-dot spectrometer technology, our phones will be able to analyze spectral light and colors to analyze the world around us.
What is a quantum dot spectrometer?
A spectrometer is a tool used to measure light in order to make determinations about chemical properties, or to show the intensity of light by determining wavelengths. A quantum dot is nanocrystal consisting of semi-conductors. Conductive properties of the incredibly small quantum dots, in conjunction with a spectrometer capable of measuring using refractions of light to make determinations, allow access to complex analysis on device that could fit inside of your smartphone. Applications of spectrometers are numerous in the fields of science and medicine. For example, on page 39 in the July, 2015 issue of “Nature,” author Norm C. Anheier describes one of the many uses for spectrometers: “Planetary scientists are using spectrometers on board rovers on the surface of Mars to analyze the composition of soil and rocks, looking for clues to the planet’s past environment and whether conditions may have been favorable for microbial life. Optical spectrometers routinely support activities that underpin our daily lives, such as biomedical research, drug discovery, renewable energy, forensic science, environmental monitoring and chemical detection.”
Benefits of having a quantum dot spectrometer in your pocket
Previously, spectrometers were giant, costly machines, which could only be used by scientists working in advanced labs with expensive equipment. The quantum dot spectrometer will allow scientists the ease of being able to take the technology with them into the field wherever they end up. A paleontologist will be able to analyze the chemical composition of a triceratops without entirely exhuming the skeleton, doctors without borders can travel to the most remote parts of the world and take medical analysis with little to no equipment, and forensic detectives can analyze evidence at a crime scene to make determinations before even setting foot in a laboratory. Norm C Anheier describes the state of spectrometers as they were before this invention, “The optical spectrometers used in these applications tend to be complex and costly because of their numerous high-precision optical and mechanical components and the stringent requirements for the alignment of these parts.” Quantum dot spectrometers will change the way we use our phones, and change the way we view the world around us every day.
