Question

Name a continuous type and a discrete type of atomizer that are used in atomic spectrometry. How do the output signals from a spectrometer differ for each?

Short answer

A flame atomizer which is a continuous type and discrete atomizer, or non-continuous type are the two types of atomizers in atomic spectroscopy. The difference of continuous and non-continuous type is signal from the continuous atomizer remains the same throughout the sample time of nebulization, while the signal reaches the maximum point and reduces to zero in a short duration in case of the discrete atomizer.

Step-by-step solution

Given Information

Determine a continuous and a discrete atomizer used in atomic spectrometry should be named and the difference in output signals for each from a spectrometer.

Continuous type and a discrete type of atomizer that are used in atomic spectrometry 

When treated with high temperature, the particles of a substance break down into individual molecules which further break down into atoms.

Flame atomizer which is continuous type and discrete atomizer, or non-continuous type are the two types of atomizers in the atomic spectroscopy.

In all the atomic spectroscopy techniques, the flame atomizer is majorly used. Here the atoms are converted to vapor phase free atom by using heat energy. An example of this kind is the turbulent flow burner flame.

The flame is regarded to be continuous atomizer and the device converting the solution to spray or droplets is the nebulizer through which the samples are passed.

An example of non-continuous type atomizer is the electro-thermal atomizer where the samples are passed at one time.

Differences of output signals from a spectrometer 

The difference of continuous and non-continuous type is signal from the continuous atomizer remains the same throughout the sample time of nebulization, while the signal reaches the maximum point and reduces to zero in a short duration in case of the discrete atomizer.