Explain chemical interferences in flame photometry. How are they overcome?

1 answer

Chemical interferences in flame photometry occur when other elements in the sample being analyzed interfere with the measurement of the element of interest. This can happen because the presence of certain elements may produce a similar emission wavelength as the element being targeted, leading to inaccurate results.

Chemical interferences can be overcome in flame photometry through various methods, including:

1. Use of a correction curve: By measuring the emission of the interfering element separately and creating a correction curve, the interference can be accounted for and adjusted in the final analysis.

2. Choice of analytical conditions: Adjusting the flame composition or temperature can help minimize the interference from other elements in the sample.

3. Sample preparation: Proper sample preparation techniques, such as dilution or digestion, can help reduce the concentration of interfering elements in the sample.

4. Use of matrix modifiers: Adding specific reagents that form complexes with interfering elements can help mitigate their effects and improve the accuracy of the analysis.

5. Use of internal standards: Adding a known concentration of an element that does not interfere with the analysis can serve as a reference for correcting the interference effects.

Overall, by understanding the potential sources of chemical interferences and employing appropriate strategies to mitigate their effects, accurate and reliable results can be obtained in flame photometry analysis.