Modern atomic absorption spectrometric (AAS) techniques are being incorporated into the project-based laboratory program in the Chemistry Department at Hampden-Sydney College, through the recent acquisition of a computer-controlled atomic absorption system. The addition of this instrumentation to current holdings, and its instructional use, further encourages attitudes of resourcefulness and independence in undergraduate students who can now profit fully from the spectrum of scientific instrumentation available. Realistic laboratory experiences are provided, beginning in the freshman and sophomore years and continuing with increasing sophistication to activities in the research- style junior/senior advanced laboratories.
