There are five basic components of atomic absorption instruments. List and explain each of them?
1. Radiation source - the radiation source in an atomic absorption instrument is usually a hollow cathode lamp or a deuterium lamp. The hollow cathode lamp emits radiation at a specific wavelength that is absorbed by the atoms of interest in the sample, while the deuterium lamp emits radiation at a broad wavelength range for background correction.
2. Monochromator - the monochromator is a device that selects a specific wavelength of radiation emitted by the radiation source. It allows only the desired wavelength of radiation to pass through to the sample, ensuring accurate and precise absorption measurements.
3. Sample introduction system - the sample introduction system is responsible for delivering the sample into the atomization source, where it will be heated to the point of atomization. Common sample introduction techniques include flame, graphite furnace, and cold vapor generation.
4. Atomization source - the atomization source is where the sample is heated to high temperatures to break it down into its atomic components. This may involve a flame, graphite furnace, or other heating element depending on the type of sample being analyzed.
5. Detector - the detector in an atomic absorption instrument measures the amount of radiation that is absorbed by the sample. It typically consists of a photomultiplier tube that converts the absorbed radiation into an electrical signal that can be recorded and analyzed by the instrument's software.
Each of these components plays a crucial role in the functioning of an atomic absorption instrument and together they enable accurate and sensitive measurements of the concentration of specific elements in a sample.