Undergraduate Analytical Laboratory Experiment: Determination of Arsenic in Rice with Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy and a Novel Digestion Method

Abstract

By focusing on food and a pervasive contaminant, this experiment engages student interest and effort while providing essential instruction and experience. As institutions are challenged by existing and emerging budgetary constraints, this experiment offers a determination approach employing commonly available instrumentation, the graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometer. The module provides a broad range of experiences: it introduces the lyophilizer, offers practice in a multistep novel digestion method, presents the theoretical foundation and practical application of atomic absorption spectroscopy, and provides an opportunity to record, calculate, and report findings. Students whose math skills are in development can complete it successfully because algebraic calculations are used at each stage of the materials’ examination. Finally, when their reports align with extensive international research, the lab offers students assurance of their growing scientific competence.