What is one primary use of AAS?

The primary use of Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) is elemental analysis. This technique is highly regarded for its ability to detect and quantify specific metal ions in various samples. AAS operates on the principle of measuring the absorption of light by free atoms in the gaseous state. For elemental analysis, it is particularly effective because it can be used to measure low concentrations of metals in liquid samples, such as water, and solid samples, such as soils and biological materials.

While AAS may have some applications in other areas, such as those related to the measurement of metals in cosmetic testing or evaluating pollutants in air quality, its predominant and most effective use remains in analyzing and quantifying elemental concentrations. This specificity and capacity to provide reliable measurements make it an essential tool in laboratories focused on environmental monitoring, materials testing, and various scientific studies where metal content is significant.