Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy is an instrumental analytical technique for measuring the elements (metals and metalloids) in samples through the application of characteristic wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation from a element specific light source.
Individual elements will absorb wavelengths differently. In effect, AAS takes advantage of the different radiation wavelengths that are absorbed by different atoms. It is based on element specific wavelength light absorption induced by exciting ground state atoms so that their characteristic wavelengths are emitted. During excitation, electrons move up one energy level in their respective atoms when those atoms absorb a specific energy. As electrons return to their original energy state, they emit energy in the form of light. These very specific wavelengths give the technique excellent specificity and detection limits. Absorption for each element is specific, no other elements absorb this wavelength.
