Which one of the following analyses is best performed using atomic absorption spectroscopy?
A - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 2 - 2007 - Paper 1
Question 2
Which one of the following analyses is best performed using atomic absorption spectroscopy?
A. measuring the amount of potassium in salt
B. determining the amount of... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Which one of the following analyses is best performed using atomic absorption spectroscopy?
A - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 2 - 2007 - Paper 1
Step 1
A. measuring the amount of potassium in salt
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Answer
Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) is particularly effective for measuring metal ions in various samples. Potassium, being a metal, can be effectively quantified with AAS due to its strong absorption characteristics at specific wavelengths.
Step 2
B. determining the amount of caffeine in coffee
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Answer
Caffeine is an organic compound, and while it can be analyzed by AAS, it is typically better suited for techniques like high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
Step 3
C. measuring the carbonate content of mineral water
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Answer
Carbonates are inorganic ions; however, their quantification is more commonly performed using titration methods rather than AAS.
Step 4
D. detecting the presence of ethanoic acid in a sample of wine
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Answer
Ethanoic acid (vinegar) is an organic acid, which is not typically analyzed using AAS. Instead, gas chromatography or spectrophotometry would be more appropriate techniques for its detection.
