Atomic Spectroscopy (AS)

Atomic Spectroscopy (AS)

1. Elemental analysis- identify or differentiate samples:

   • Presence
   • Absence
   • Relative concentration

2. Determines:

   • Presence of elements
   • Concentration of elements

3. Important in forensic science

   • Detecting metallic posions
   • Analysing GSR
     • Gun shot residue
   • Detecting contaminants
   • Characterising glass, paint, soil etc
   • Profiling oil spills & drugs

4. Fundamentals of AS

   • Analysis requires
     • Individual atoms
       • Molecules' bonds need to be broken
   • Atomic state generated by:
     • Thermal energy (heating)
     • Ionic compounds dissolve in solvent (H2O)
       • Dissolving reduces energy required to break bonds