What is the function of the photocell in a flame photometer?

The function of the photocell in a flame photometer is to convert light energy to electrical energy. When a sample is introduced into the flame, it produces light emissions based on the elements present in that sample. The intensity of the light emitted is proportional to the concentration of the particular element being analyzed. The photocell detects this emitted light and converts it into an electrical signal, which can then be measured and quantified.

This process is critical because it allows for the precise measurement of the concentration of various ions in a solution, making the flame photometer an effective tool for analyzing samples in laboratory settings. By transforming light into an electrical signal, the photocell plays an integral role in the functioning of the device. This conversion is key to the entire analytical process, as it enables the subsequent analysis of the data obtained from this conversion.