Q1(f). ICP multielement capability

Answer in brief

An ICP excites or ionises many elements simultaneously, whereas conventional flame AAS usually measures element-specific absorption sequentially.

Key points

• The hot argon plasma atomises a wide range of species and supplies many emission lines (ICP-OES) or ions (ICP-MS).
• Multichannel optical detection or rapid mass scanning measures many elements from one sample introduction.
• Flame AAS generally requires a suitable source and wavelength for each element and may require different flame conditions.
• ICP offers wide dynamic range and fewer refractory-compound problems, though spectral overlaps, matrix effects and calibration still need control.