Atomic absorption spectrophotometry works by first converting a sample into an aerosol using a nebulizer. It then uses a hollow cathode lamp light source matched to the element of interest which passes through the flame-atomized sample. Any absorption of light is measured by a detector and used to determine the concentration of the elemental analyte in the original sample based on the amount of light absorbed.
2. Principle
•In AAS atoms are in ground state
•The ground state atoms are capable of absorbing light
•Results in decrease in intensity of light from the lamb
•Analyte concentration is determined from amount of
absorption
4. •Light source
•Hollow cathode lamp
•Glass tube filled with an inert gas
•Eg. Neon, argon
•Burner/flame
•Elements to be analysed should be in atomic state
5. Nebulizer
•Sample is converted to aerosol
Monochromator
•Placed between flame and detector
•Used to select the specific wavelength of light
which is absorbed by sample
6. •Detector
•Light from the monochromator reaches to
detector
•Light energy is converted to electrical signal
•Readout device
•Display readings
