atomic absorption spectroscopy flame

Have you ever wondered what happens at the moment you strike a match, or lite a candle? Flames are fascinating to observe, and they can provide valuable insights into the various chemicals they contain. The next time you see a flame, remember that it’s not just light and heat; there’s a whole world of science going on! In flames, scientists study the elements by using a special tool called atomic absorption spectroscopy, which helps them understand what are the components of different matter.

This really cool thing than shines a bright light on a sample (a small piece of what scientists want to study). The atoms are indeed inside the sample and when the light shines on it, the atoms will absorb some of that light. Consider it like sponge soaking the water! The light being absorbed causes the atoms to become excited, a phenomenon that can be compared to the electrons bouncing up to a higher energy level — If you think of electrons like climbing up the rungs of a ladder, then they are jumping a higher step. Then when the electrons fall back to their normal levels, they emit energy as light. This light can be very specific and probably unique for every element. Scientists scrutinize this light in order to determine which elements are present in the sample under investigation.