Atomic absorption spectroscopy has been established as the most important technique in the identification and quantitative determination of trace metals. This project educates chemistry, environmental studies, and selected non-science-majors in the theory and operation of this powerful technique. The instrument is being used in introductory non-science-major and science majors labs as well as for advanced chemistry and environmental studies majors courses. Starting with basic flame atomic absorption of single elements, students advance to multi-element analyses by graphite furnace atomic absorption. This effectively ensures proper training in modern atomic absorption techniques for students who go on to strong industrial positions or excellent graduate schools. In addition to the students and faculty at the college involved in this project, the local Mathematics and Science Center has the opportunity to benefit from this equipment.
