noun
- a group of atoms in a molecule that is responsible for its color by absorbing certain wavelengths of light
Usage: chemistry; technical
Examples
- The chromophore in chlorophyll absorbs red and blue light while reflecting green.
- Scientists identified the specific chromophore responsible for the dye’s bright red color.
- Different chromophores can be combined to create molecules that absorb various wavelengths.
- The chromophore’s structure determines which colors of light the compound will absorb.
- Researchers modified the chromophore to shift the absorption spectrum toward blue light.
- Organic dyes contain chromophores that give them their distinctive colors.