The Instrument
The Varian SpectrAA 22FS Atomic Absorption Spectrometer is a multi-channel instrument with four lamp positions. The lamps are either single element or, as used in this experiment, multi-element. This lamp can be used for analysis of iron, manganese, As with many modern analytical instruments, it is almost completely controlled with software from a PC. Parameters such as the air flow, the acetylene flow, the monochromator settings, and the lamp intensity can all be set in a "method," which is then downloaded to the instrument. Cautions: Acetylene is highly explosive under certain conditions; the acetylene regulator output pressure should never exceed 15 psi. The cylinders will be opened and adjusted by your instructor. Any problems which arise should be brought to the attention of the laboratory instructor immediately. Read through the entire procedure before beginning your analysis.