Why Use Nitric Acid for Heavy Metal Digestion?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the use of nitric acid for the digestion of water samples in the context of detecting heavy metals, specifically copper and lead, prior to analysis using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Participants explore the reasons for choosing nitric acid over other acids and the implications for the solubility and volatility of different compounds.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the rationale for using nitric acid for digestion, suggesting that the choice may depend on the specific heavy metals being analyzed.
  • Another participant challenges the initial claim, asserting that the reasoning provided is incorrect.
  • Further clarification is offered regarding the solubility of sulfates and the volatility of chlorides, indicating that these properties may influence the choice of acid.
  • There is a correction regarding the terminology used in relation to atomic absorption spectroscopy, with emphasis on the correct phrasing of "atomized analyte" instead of "absorption of analyte."

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the initial claim about the use of nitric acid, with some asserting that the reasoning is incorrect. The discussion remains unresolved as participants present differing viewpoints and corrections without reaching a consensus.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the assumptions made about the types of acids and their effects on the digestion process, as well as the specific conditions under which heavy metals are analyzed.

Henokh96
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I already done an experiment for detecting the presence of heavy metals(copper and lead) .

The last step for detection is through the absorption of analyte by atomic absorption spectroscopy.

Before that step to be done, the first process is to digest the water sample in the fume chamber.

And my question is that why on Earth are we using nitric acid for the digestion? Why not use the other types of acid?

If I am right , the reason why depends the type of heavy metal that we wanted to achieve .
Tell me if I am wrong :) tq
 
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You are wrong.
 
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Likes   Reactions: Henokh96
OK, more seriously - sulfates tend to be insoluble, chlorides tend to be volatile.

Watch your language. This:

Henokh96 said:
absorption of analyte by atomic absorption spectroscopy

is wrong. AAS is not based on the "absorption of analyte".
 
Borek said:
You are wrong.
Further explanation might help sir
 
Borek said:
OK, more seriously - sulfates tend to be insoluble, chlorides tend to be volatile.

Watch your language. This:
is wrong. AAS is not based on the "absorption of analyte".
Atomized analyte correct?
 

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