atomic absorption spectroscopy

noun

variants or less commonly atomic absorption spectrometry

: a method of spectroscopy that relies on the absorption of specific frequencies of light by atoms in order to identify the chemical composition of a sample

To fully characterize the composition, we determined the Li, Na and Mn contents by atomic absorption spectroscopy after dissolving the sample in dilute hydrochloric acid.

—Jaekook Kim, Nature, 20 Nov. 1997

called also absorption spectroscopy

Word History

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Rhymes for atomic absorption spectroscopy

• arthroscopy
• colposcopy
• cystoscopy
• fluoroscopy
• colonoscopy
• laparoscopy