Which statement correctly differentiates FAA and GFAA in terms of atomization?

• A. FAA uses a flame; GFAA uses a graphite furnace
• B. FAA uses a graphite furnace; GFAA uses a flame
• C. FAA uses a flame; GFAA uses a laser
• D. FAA uses a laser; GFAA uses a flame

Answer: (A)

Atomization is the step that turns the sample into free atoms so they can absorb light. In flame atomic absorption, the sample is aspirated into a flame, and the flame’s heat atomizes the elements. In graphite furnace atomic absorption, the sample is placed in a small graphite tube and heated in a controlled cycle to dry, ash, and then atomize. So the statement that FAA uses a flame and GFAA uses a graphite furnace matches these two distinct atomization approaches. The other pairings don’t reflect the standard setups for these two methods.