Photoacoustic Signal Detection and a Method for Simulating Light Absorption in a Resonant Optoacoustic Chamber

Abstract

The objective of research presented here was to determine if a signal, attributable to the optoacoustic effect, could be detected and measured. This was to be accomplished through the use of the equipment available in a typical small college physics department. The available equipment included a lock-in amplifier for signal analysis and a low-powered He-Ne laser. This paper represents only the beginnings of the possibilities for investigation on a more quantitative level; however, the accomplished research provides a good basis for learning more about the basic principles of the optoacoustic effect and understanding some of the underlying physics.