Figure 8.22
Energy level diagrams for the easily excited atomic lines of lithium,
sodium, potassium and rubidium. Wavelengths are given in
nanometres for the spectral lines produced by transitions between the
different levels. The ionization potential is indicated by the dashed line
above the respective diagrams.and from flame combustion products including , CO, O 2 , , H 2 O and may also be observed.
Background emission by the flame (Figure 8.23) includes contributions from molecular species and
continuum radiation from incandescent particles and depends upon the combination of fuel and support
gases used. The sample solvent and matrix will further augment background radiation.
Quantitative Measurements and Interferences
The intensity of a spectral line is related to the solution concentration of the analyte in a similar
complex manner to that described for arc/spark emission (p. 293) although the degree of ionization α
will generally be much less
Figure 8.23
Flame background spectrum of an acetylene–oxygen flame containing
an organic aerosol.