•Atomic
Absorption – atoms usually in gaseous state like mercury vapor generated in a flame absorb light & undergo electronic transition
•Atomic spectra are simple line spectra because there are no bonds to vibrate or rotate around, just electrons to promote
•Example – Na vapor has 2 lines 589.0 nm & 589.6 nm which come from 3s electrons promoted to 2 possible 3p states of different E
•Peak at 285 nm from 3s to 5p = more E
•UV-vis wavelengths promote outer shell electrons
•X-rays promote inner shell e- = much more E