Atomic Absorption Spectrometry:

You have learnt that within atomic spectrometry, an elements present within a sample are converted within gaseous atoms through a procedure known as atomisation and their interaction along with the radiation is measured. You have learnt about flame photometry and atomic fluorescence spectrometry. Within flame photometry we measure an emission of radiation through thermally excited atoms while within atomic fluorescence spectrometry we monitor the fluorescence emission from the radiationally excited atoms. In this theory you would learn about atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) which concerns the absorption of radiation through the atomised analyte element within the ground state. The atomisation is achieved through the thermal energy of the flame or electrothermally within an electrical furnace. A wavelength(s) of the radiation absorbed and the extent of the absorption form the primary of the qualitative and quantitative determinations respectively.

The atomic absorption methods using flame are rapid and precise and are applicable to about 67 components. Electrothermal methods of analysis instead are slower and less precise; therefore, these are more sensitive and required much smaller samples.

Since the absorption of resonance radiation is highly selective and also extremely sensitive, methods of AAS has become a powerful method of analysis that is used for trace elemental determinations within most analytical laboratories for a huge variety of applications.

We start the unit along with an understanding of the origin of atomic absorption spectrum and learn about the principle behind atomic absorption spectrophotometry being used as a significant analytical technique. Then we will take up the instrumentation needed for the measurement of atomic absorption spectrum. An account of the probable interferences within atomic absorption spectrophotometry will be followed through sample handling procedures, such as preparing and loading the sample for the spectral measurements. A qualitative and quantitative application of atomic absorption spectrophotometry will be followed through the merits and demerits of the method. In the further you would learn about atomic emission spectrometry and its applications within diverse areas.