Flame photometry is a method for measuring the brightness of substances based on measuring the radiation emitted as a result of the fiery oxidation or reduction of a substance. This method is used to measure the intensity of emission or absorption in the visible, ultraviolet or infrared spectrum.
This method is based on the Stefan-Boltzmann equation, which states that any surface that radiates heat emits light proportional to the fourth power of its temperature. If a substance is subjected to chemical decomposition at high temperatures, it will emit enormous amounts of light. By measuring this radiation, it is possible to determine the amount of heat that is generated by this element. This measurement can be used to determine plasma density, component concentrations, temperature, and other characteristics.
To measure the intensity of radiation caused by thermal decomposition, a mixture of gases is introduced into a flame chamber, which is a special tube attached to a radiation detector. In this chamber, fiery oxidation or reduction of the substance occurs, which causes a burst of radiation. A detector is then used to measure this burst.
Flame chambers usually contain special additives, such as sodium or potassium, which are added to the chamber air to increase the brightness of the process. There are many different types of flame chambers, each designed for different types of measurements. Different types of chambers can be used for different types of elements, including metals, acids, gases, and even water. By using the right precautions, accurate measurements can often be made with high accuracy.
The advantages of flame photometry include high accuracy and repeatability of results, and the ability to be used over wide ranges of temperatures, radiation levels and concentrations. It can also be used to measure the properties of various materials such as metals and semiconductors.