A wavelength-modulated continuum source atomic absorption spectrometer is used to obtain time-resolved atomic absorption spectra (absorbance vs wavelength) using an electrothermal atomizer. Absorbance spectra are acquired at a rate of 56 Hz during atomization. The operator may choose any portion of the atomization time period to be examined as well as the number of absorbance profiles to be averaged. This time-resolved spectral information facilitates the positive identification of spectral interferences as well as providing for detailed inspection of both analyte and background absorption signals. Several interferences are examined.
