This article describes a two-week experiment for introductory chemistry students, where they analyze the lead content of paint chip samples using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). It involves the preparation of standard lead solutions, preparation and analysis of paint chip samples (including a standard reference lead sample) using AAS, construction of calibration lines, weight % lead calculations, and proper disposal of all waste solutions. Average relative percent errors for students' results consistently decrease between weeks one and two as students become more proficient at the preparation of standard lead and paint chip sample solutions.
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