Photoacoustic spectroscopy with condensed samples.

A discussion of the photoacoustic spectroscopy of condensed matter is presented with emphasis on the role of the sample and the sample cell in the photoacoustic signal waveform. The spectrometer and sample cell are described, and an experimental evaluation of the system performance is given. Data on various samples are reported, and sample geometry, signal saturation, and scattered light effects are analyzed. The relationship between photoacoustic spectra and absorption and reflection spectra is developed.