Sodium and Potassium Determinations by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy and Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectroscopy

Abstract

The objective of this laboratory exercise is to determine the sodium and potassium contents of food products using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The samples suggested for analysis include two solid food products that require wet and/or dry ashing prior to analysis (catsup and potato chips) and one liquid food product that does not require ashing (a clear sports drink or a clear fruit juice).