Diagram of an atomic absorption spectrophotometer:

A block figure displaying the primary components of an atomic absorption spectrophotometer is given in Figure.

Figure: Schematic diagram of an atomic absorption spectrophotometer showing its basic components

Within a typical flame atomic absorption spectrophotometric determination, the radiation from a hollow cathode lamp is made to fall on the sample of the analyte aspirated within the flame, whereas a part of it is absorbed. The transmitted radiation is then dispersed through a monochromator and sent to the detector. The detector output is correctly processed and is displayed through appropriate readout device. These single channel instruments could perform measurements at a single wavelength just within one channel. Presently, dual-channel instruments are also available which allow concurrent measurements at two various wavelengths. These hold two independent monochromators for the purpose. Therefore, these could be used for the similar determination of two elements; one could be the analyte to be determined and the other might be a reference element. You would learn about different kinds of AAS instruments.