Question

The ICP-OES was used to analyse phosphorus, a non-metal. While atomic absorption is often used for metal analyses, it is never used for non-metals. Explain why not.

Answer 1

Non metal analysis uses ICP-OES because in this process forming carbides does not hamper the procedure and non metals form carbides generally. And in ICP-OES non metal hydrides are also anlysed. But in AAS formation of carbides hamper the procedure. And therfore only metals are analysed. While doing ICP-OES we have to keep in mindthe high memory effects, and elements which tend form carbides should be analysed. However, AAS can be used to determine over 70 different elements in solution or directly in solid samples used in pharmacology, toxicology research including metalloids like arsenic.