Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) is an analytical technique used to determine the concentration of a particular element in a sample. It measures the amount of light absorbed by the atoms of the element when it is vaporized and excited by a light source.
AAS works by passing a beam of light through a sample containing the element of interest. The atoms in the sample absorb some of the light, and the remaining light is then measured by a detector. The amount of light absorbed is proportional to the concentration of the element in the sample.
AAS is a highly sensitive and precise technique, able to detect elements at very low concentrations. It is also a relatively fast and cost-effective method compared to other analytical techniques.
AAS can be used to analyze a wide range of samples, including liquids, solids, and gases. The sample must be in a liquid or gaseous form during the analysis, so solid samples must first be dissolved or vaporized.
AAS is limited to the detection of elements that can be vaporized and excited by the light source. It is also unable to differentiate between different oxidation states of an element. Additionally, matrix effects from other elements in the sample can interfere with the accuracy of the results.