Which of the following is a common use of atomic absorption spectroscopy outside of clinical settings?

Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) is widely utilized for determining the concentration of specific metal ions in various samples, which includes applications in environmental monitoring. One of its common uses outside clinical settings is in assessing water quality. By measuring trace elements and heavy metals in water, AAS serves as a critical tool in identifying contaminants that can pose health risks or affect ecosystem dynamics.

This method allows for the detection of elements like lead, mercury, and cadmium at very low concentrations, making it invaluable for regulatory compliance and public health assessments. In contrast, measuring pH levels typically involves other methodologies, such as using pH meters or indicator solutions rather than atomic absorption. Performing blood glucose tests and assessing microbial culture growth are specific to clinical and microbiological settings, respectively, and do not leverage the capabilities of atomic absorption spectroscopy.