Chapter 20, Problem 20.1P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Advantages and disadvantages of usage of furnace and flame in ABS have to be compared.

Concept Introduction:

Atomization is a phenomenon when analyte is broken down to gaseous atoms that can be later detected by absorption or emission occurs. Atomic absorption spectrometer devices make use of this proves to effectively decompose sample into constituents atoms. Recently argon plasma or graphite furnace that is electrically heated is often used for measurement of both absorption and emission process.

Explanation of Solution

Advantages of flame atomic absorption spectroscopy over furnace are listed as follows:

1. 1. Relatively inexpensive than graphite.
2. 2. High precision can be obtained.
3. 3. Greater amount of sample can be analyzed.

Advantages of Furnace over flame are listed as follows:

1. 1. Enhanced sensitivity towards concentration of analyte and mass.
2. 2. More efficient atomization.
3. 3. Solution, solid samples and slurries in the range of $5-50\text{ μL}$ can be analyzed.
4. 4. It provides reducing environment for elements that can be readily oxidized.

Disadvantages of flame over furnace are listed as follows:

1. 1. Only solutions are capable to be analyzed in flames.
2. 2. Refractory elements may pose problems.
3. 3. Lesser sensitivity compared to graphite.
4. 4. Large sample of the order $1-2\text{ mL}$ must be added.

Disadvantages of furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy are listed as follows:

1. 1. They involve complexity of instruments that are also quite expensive.
2. 2. They also required predetermined temperatures.
3. 3. It also requires optimization of its automated mechanism for several purposes such as sample drying, atomization, solvent evaporation.
4. 4. Different samples require different operation conditions in furnace. So it requires operator skills.