Emisjonsspektralanalyse

Emisjonsspektralanalyse, also known as emission spectroscopy, is an analytical technique used to determine the elemental composition of a sample by analyzing the light emitted by excited atoms or molecules. When a substance is heated or exposed to an electrical discharge, its atoms or molecules absorb energy and transition to higher energy states. As they return to their ground state, they release this excess energy in the form of photons, creating an emission spectrum. This spectrum consists of discrete lines, each corresponding to a specific wavelength of light. The unique pattern of these lines acts as a fingerprint for the elements present in the sample. By measuring the wavelengths and intensities of these emitted lines, scientists can identify and quantify the elements present. The technique is versatile and can be applied to a wide range of materials, including solids, liquids, and gases. Common applications include elemental analysis in metallurgy, environmental monitoring, forensic science, and astronomical studies of stars and nebulae. Different excitation sources can be used, such as flame, plasma, or arc/spark, each suited for specific sample types and analytical requirements. The intensity of the emitted light is generally proportional to the concentration of the element, allowing for quantitative analysis.