The environmental and physiological effects of lead are not only dependent upon its concentration, but its chemical form. Elemental analysis for the total concentration of lead in a sample by atomic absorption provides only part of the information needed to help determine its toxicity. The importance of speciation, cannot be over-emphasized.

Many mercury compounds have proven very benefical to mankind and have thus been widely used for industrial and medicimal purposes. However, the toxicity of mercury compounds have also been the subject of worldwide study for a number of years. The toxicity of mercury compounds and their effects on mankind and his environment is well documented (1, 2, 3).

Sample introduction is central to the use of flame atomizers in atomic absorption spectroscopy. It is generally inefficient but has the potential for improvement.