The generated Hg vapor is then
transported to an inductively coupled plasma for determination
by atomic emission spectrometry. Mercury vapor
is readily generated from a background electrolyte containing
0.1 M HNO3. Vapor generation efficiency was
found to be higher by a factor of 2-3 in the presence of
low molecular weight organic acids (formic or acetic acids)
or alcohols (ethanol). Optimal conditions for discharge induced
vapor generation and reduced interference from
concomitant inorganic ions were also identified. However,
the presence of chloride ion reduces the efficiency of Hgvapor
generation