CDPH Lead Inspector/Assessor California State Practice Exam

Which method is typically used for analyzing heavy metals in soil samples?

1. Wet Chemistry

2. Spectrophotometry

3. AAS - Atomic Absorption Spectrometry

4. Mass Spectrometry

The correct answer is: AAS - Atomic Absorption Spectrometry

The method commonly used for analyzing heavy metals in soil samples is Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS). This technique is highly effective for detecting and quantifying metals due to its sensitivity and ability to differentiate between various elements in a sample. AAS works by vaporizing the sample and measuring the absorption of light as it passes through the vapor. Each metal has a unique absorption spectrum, allowing for precise identification and quantification of specific heavy metals present in the soil. AAS is particularly advantageous in environmental analysis because it can measure low concentrations of metals, which is often essential when assessing contamination levels in soil. The method is widely recognized and accepted for regulatory compliance and has extensive applications in environmental monitoring, making it a standard choice among professionals in the field. In contrast, while methods like wet chemistry, spectrophotometry, and mass spectrometry are valuable in certain contexts, they may not provide the same level of specificity or sensitivity for the direct analysis of heavy metals in soil samples as AAS does.