Question

The absorbance reading of an element is observed in an atomic absorption spectrometer. Would the readings increase, decrease or stay the same if: (please explain) Thank you

a) viscosity of the solution increased or decreased?
b) the solution had a lot of dust particles?
c) the slit width was increased from the sample absorption, but the standards were run on a narrower slit width?

Answer 1

a. Increased viscosity makes it harder for the sample to be aspirated into the flame; therefore, the reading would be ....
b. I suspect the dust particles would deflect/reflect/scatter much of the light going to the instrument; therefore, the reading would ....'
c. Wider slits mean more light getting to the instrument so ......

Answer 2

Thanks dude