This book is a compact and simultaneously comprehensive introduction to the theory and practice of optical spectroscopy. The author skillfully leads the reader from the basics to practical applications. The main topics covered are: – theory of optical spectroscopy – components of spectrometers (light sources, filters, lenses and mirror chromators, detectors, cuvettes) – evaluation of data and interpretation of spectra Such important methods as absorption and luminescence spectroscopy, scattering and reflection spectroscopy and photoaccustic spectroscopy are covered in depth. A useful appendix with the addresses of pertinent equipment manufacturers rounds off the work. Easy to understand and well illustrated, this book is suitable both as a textbook for beginners and as a reference work for the practitioner.