For atomic emission spectroscopy and atomic absorption spectroscopy, which one is more sensitiveto flame instability and why

Atomic emission spectroscopy and atomic absorption spectroscopy are both analytical techniques used to determine the concentration of elements in a sample.

In atomic emission spectroscopy, the sample is excited by a high-energy source, such as a flame or plasma, causing the atoms to emit light at specific wavelengths. The intensity of the emitted light is then measured to determine the concentration of the element of interest.

On the other hand, atomic absorption spectroscopy involves passing a beam of light through the sample containing the element of interest. The atoms in the sample absorb specific wavelengths of light, and the decrease in intensity of the transmitted light is used to determine the concentration of the element.

When it comes to flame instability, atomic emission spectroscopy is generally more sensitive compared to atomic absorption spectroscopy. This is because flame instability can cause fluctuations in the intensity of the emitted light, leading to variations in the measured concentration.

In atomic absorption spectroscopy, the absorption of light by the atoms in the sample is less affected by flame instability. The decrease in intensity of the transmitted light is primarily determined by the concentration of the element, rather than the stability of the flame.

Therefore, if flame instability is a concern, atomic absorption spectroscopy may be a more suitable choice as it is less sensitive to these fluctuations.