emissionespektrometria

Emission spectrometry is an analytical technique used to determine the elemental composition of a sample. It works by exciting atoms within the sample, causing them to emit light at specific wavelengths. These wavelengths are unique to each element, acting like a fingerprint that can be identified and quantified.

The process typically begins with the sample being introduced into a high-energy environment, such as a flame, plasma, or electric arc. This energy source causes the atoms in the sample to absorb energy and move to higher energy levels. As these excited atoms return to their ground state, they release the absorbed energy in the form of photons, which is the emitted light.

The emitted light is then passed through a spectrometer, which separates the light into its constituent wavelengths. A detector measures the intensity of light at each wavelength. By analyzing the wavelengths present and their intensities, scientists can identify and quantify the elements present in the original sample. Common types of emission spectrometry include flame atomic emission spectrometry (FAES), inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES), and arc/spark emission spectrometry. The choice of excitation source depends on the sample type and the elements being analyzed. Emission spectrometry is widely used in various fields, including environmental monitoring, materials science, and clinical diagnostics.