Production of the Atomic Vapor

The function of the sample cell is to convert the sample into ground state atoms in the optical path of the atomic absorption system. The ground state atoms must be obtained from the sample in a reproducible manner if quantitative data are to be obtained. The sample is usually in liquid form, although recent developments with carbon rods and tantalum boats have made possible the use of solid samples. 

The steps involved in producing an atomic vapor from a liquid sample as outlined in Chapter 9 for flame emission are the same for atomic absorption. 

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