Question

In flame atomic absorption with a hydrogen-oxygen flame, why might the absorbance signal for iron decrease in the presence of high concentrations of the polyatomic sulfate ion?

a) Iron forms a stable complex with sulfate, reducing its absorption
b) Sulfate ion interferes with the flame temperature, affecting iron's signal
c) Iron reacts with sulfate, forming a compound that reduces absorbance
d) Sulfate ion enhances iron's volatility, reducing its absorbance

Answer 1

In flame atomic absorption, the absorbance signal for iron may decrease in the presence of high concentrations of the polyatomic sulfate ion because iron forms a stable complex with sulfate, reducing its absorption.

Step-by-step explanation:

In flame atomic absorption with a hydrogen-oxygen flame, the absorbance signal for iron may decrease in the presence of high concentrations of the polyatomic sulfate ion because iron forms a stable complex with sulfate, reducing its absorption.