Abstract
Nowadays a growing number of scientists relies on optical spectral measurements for their research. The market is full of new plug-and-play equipment for spectral analysis that take the fuss out of the measurements. As with other instruments (computers, lasers, etc.) the researcher doesn't need any longer to work with someone with a post-graduate formation on the technology to be able to do excellent research. But, as in every instrument, there are limitations on the instrument use that affect its precision and resolution. Currently there is in the market a large variety of equipment for spectral measurements. They range from the huge long focal length double pass monochromators to the small pocket size USB connected array spectrometers. The different configurations have different sensitivities on the light input system, light intensity, coherence, polarization, etc. In this talk we will discuss a few of the limitations in spectral measurements that can be found in experimental setups.

Abstract

Abstract
Spectroscopy can be historically traced down to the study of the dispersion of light by a glass prism. In the early 19th century, inspired by Newton's experiment, Fraunhofer creates a device where an illuminated slit and a lens are placed before the prism; such a device is later transformed, by Kirchoff and Bunsen, into a much handier and more precise observation and measurement instrument, the spectroscope. In the 1930's, the Physics Laboratory of the Faculty of Science of the University of Porto would buy, from Adam Hilger, Ltd., London, a constant deviation spectrometer. The ultimate purpose was to set up a spectroscopy laboratory for teaching and research. This model's robust construction (the telescope and the collimator are rigidly fixed) makes it adequate for student's practice. To sweep across the spectrum, all it takes is to rotate the high quality, constant deviation prism -known as Pellin-Broca prism. Spectra in the 390-900 nm interval are observed, either directly, or through photographic recording, or even by using a thermopile and associated galvanometer, when working in the infra-red range. The wavelength of the line under observation is read straight on a drum, which is fixed to the prism's rotation mechanism. Details of the construction and operation of this spectrometer are explored, against the background of present day spectrometers, automatic and computerized, thereby offering a deeper understanding of spectroscopic analysis: for instance, the use of the raies ultimes powder, a mixture of 50 chemical elements whose emission spectra provide a way of calibrating the instrument.

Abstract
Nowadays, Magnetic Resonance Imaging is widely accepted and is becoming an increasingly useful imaging technique. For its functioning, in magnetic resonance equipments there are three main sources of electromagnetic fields: static magnetic fields, time-varying gradient fields and radiofrequencies fields. All of these fields have effects both on patients and workers. The main effect of radiofrequencies fields is heat deposition on human body, which causes tissue heating. There are international guidelines that establish occupational limits for its exposure. A good knowledge of radiofrequencies implications and its safety aspects is vital for better practices in magnetic resonance imaging.

Abstract
Optics is probably one on the most exciting topics in physics. However, it also contains some of the less understood phenomena by students - the light spectra obtained from the diffraction of light. The experimental study of light spectra for studying radiating bodies, usually requests sophisticated and expensive equipment that is not normaly affordable for schools, and only a few teachers know how to measure the wavelength of light in a spectrum. In this work we present a simple and inexpensive setup, with enough accuracy for measuring light spectra to be used both in physics and chemistry classes. We show how freeware software Tracker, commonly used for teaching mechanics, can serve to measure wavelengths with about 2 nm of resolution. Several approaches to the calibration of different setups are also provided, depending on the degree of accuracy demanded. © 2016 IOP Publishing Ltd.

Abstract
In this work we present a simple and low cost setup that allows obtaining the light spectra and measuring the wavelength of its features. It is based on a cheap transmission diffraction grating, an ordinary digital camera and using Tracker software to increase measuring accuracy. This equipment can easily be found in most schools. The experimental setup is easy to implement (the typical setup for a pocket spectroscope) replacing the eye with the camera. The calibration is done using a light source with a well-known spectrum. The acquired images are analyzed with Tracker (freeware software frequently used for motion studies). With this system, we have analyzed several light sources. As an example, the analysis of the spectra obtained with compact fluorescent lamp allowed to recognize the spectrum of mercury in the lamp, as expected. This spectral analysis is therefore useful in schools, among other topics, to enable the recognition of chemical elements through spectroscopy, and to alert students to the different spectra of illuminating light sources used in houses and public places.