ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Vibrational spectroscopy

Vibrational spectroscopy is a scientific way of studying tiny things called molecules. Molecules are made up of teeny tiny atoms that are all stuck together like building blocks. These atoms are always moving and vibrating in different ways, and we can use special tools to study these vibrations.

When we shine light on a molecule, the light can interact with the vibrations of the atoms in the molecule. This creates a unique pattern of light that we can measure and study. It's like playing a musical instrument – each molecule vibrates in its own unique way like a note on a musical instrument.

Scientists use vibrational spectroscopy to understand the structure of molecules and how they behave. They can use it to figure out what molecules are made of and how they interact with other molecules. It's like trying to understand how different kinds of building blocks can fit together to make something bigger, like a Lego castle.

Overall, vibrational spectroscopy helps scientists learn a lot about tiny molecules and how they work, which can help us understand the world around us better!