The disclosed subject matter relates to a force-clamp spectrometer that enables operation in constant force mode and allows for automated data acquisition and analysis, using feedback electronics and software. The disclosed subject matter also relates to methods of using the force-clamp spectrometer for the measurement of the dynamics of chemical reactions. The methods may include, but are not limited to, the measurement of the dynamics of substrate folding and unfolding, as well as bond cleavage and bond formation.
