In atomic absorption spectroscopy, what is the typical light source used?

In atomic absorption spectroscopy, the typical light source used is a hollow cathode lamp. This type of lamp is specifically designed to emit light at very specific wavelengths corresponding to the element being analyzed. The hollow cathode consists of a cathode with a hollow cavity that contains the metal of interest. When an electrical current passes through the lamp, it generates a plasma that excites the metal atoms, causing them to emit light. This emitted light contains the sharp, discrete wavelengths characteristic of the element, which is essential for effective absorption measurements.

The choice of the hollow cathode lamp is advantageous because it provides high-intensity light at the required wavelengths and has excellent stability and low background noise, which contributes to the sensitivity and accuracy of the atomic absorption process. Therefore, it is the preferred light source for this analytical technique.