Atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS), also commonly referred to as atomic absorption spectroscopy, is one of the most widely used analytical techniques for the determination of trace metals in a variety of sample types — from potable and drinking waters to biological fluids . Atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS), also commonly referred to as atomic absorption spectroscopy, is one of the most widely used analytical techniques for the determination of trace metals in a variety of sample types — from potable and drinking waters to biological fluids . Atomic absorption spectroscopy is used in fields such as mining, pharmaceuticals, environmental control, and agriculture. Deon Visser is a Professor at the University of the Free State. They lead innovative research projects in the medical, nano-materials, and women's health segments. Credit:. Absorption spectroscopy is spectroscopy that involves techniques that measure the absorption of electromagnetic radiation, as a function of frequency or wavelength, due to its interaction with a sample. By measuring which wavelengths a sample absorbs and how strongly, scientists can identify what's in a. It is an analytical technique used to determine the concentration of certain elements, metal atoms/ions in given sample. Metals which consist of 75% of earth chemical elements sometime also make a content as a contaminant in several components (mine.