During flame spectroscopy, what happens to the sample?

During flame spectroscopy, the sample is subjected to high temperatures by being placed in a flame. This process atomizes the sample, meaning that it breaks down molecules into individual atoms. When these atoms are heated in the flame, they absorb energy and subsequently emit light at specific wavelengths as they return to their ground state. The emitted light can then be analyzed to determine the presence and concentration of various elements within the sample based on their unique emission spectra.

This method is particularly useful for analysis because the wavelength of the emitted light is characteristic of the element being tested, allowing for precise identification. The temperature and environment of the flame ensure that the sample becomes a gas, which promotes efficient emission of light that can be measured using spectroscopic techniques.