The Shape of Analytical Curves in Zeeman Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy. I. Normal Concentration Range

Abstract

Analytical curves have been calculated for different Zeeman atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) systems which all correct for background absorption. The sensitivity and curvature of the analytical curves have been compared mutually and to normal AAS. A variable magnetic field is preferred over a constant field. In the variable field sensitivity and curvature are equal to normal AAS whereas in the constant field sensitivity is lower and curvature is stronger compared to normal AAS. Whenever a constant magnetic field is used it should be adjustable to the magnetic field strength where maximum sensitivity is obtained. The magnetic field should be applied to the atomizer to achieve correction for wavelength dependent background absorption. The most promising Zeeman atomic absorption spectrometer employs a variable magnetic field applied to the atomizer and directed parallel to the optical axis.