What's atomic absorbtion spectroscopy?

Answer 1

Atomic-absorption (AA) spectroscopy uses the absorption of light to measure the concentration of gas-phase atoms. Since samples are usually liquids or solids, the analyte atoms or ions must be vaporized in a flame or graphite furnace. The atoms absorb ultraviolet or visible light and make transitions to higher electronic energy levels. The analyte concentration is determined from the amount of absorption. Applying the Beer-Lambert law directly in AA spectroscopy is difficult due to variations in the atomization efficiency from the sample matrix, and nonuniformity of concentration and path length of analyte atoms (in graphite furnace AA). Concentration measurements are usually determined from a working curve after calibrating the instrument with standards of known concentration.

Answer 2

An atomic absorption spectroscope is used in analytical chemistry to measure the concentrations of dissolved metals in a liquefied sample. The machines work by injecting the sample into a very hot furnace, which volatilizes the metal ions. A light having a wavelength that is absorbed by a specific element is beamed through the furnace, and the amount of light that is absorbed is proportional to the concentration of the element in the sample. Different lights are used for different elements.