CORRESPONDENCE APPARATUS FOR SPECTROSCOPIC ANALYSIS To the Editor DEARSIR: Enclosed find a set-up for spectroscopic analysis, by means of which the solutions to be examined may be readily changed and the container cleaned.
It is made by bending a long-stemmed funnel a, as a t b, and flaring out the lower end as a t c. The solution containing also hydrochloric acid heaps itself up a t d, so that a sufficient supply is present to steady the spark and prevent i t from contacting and perhaps breaking the container.
The slit of the spectroscope is shown behind the spark, e, and should be far enough away to prevent corrosion of the metal composing it. These pieces should be made easily removable so that they may be cleaned. The old solution is removed by running acidulated water from a reservoir, not shown, through the funnel. This spurts upward and cleans not only the funnel, but also the platinum electrode,f. This set-up will definitely determine, manganese, zinc, barium, strontium, calcium, and magnesium, as well as sodium and potassium, even in the presence of each other. Any acidulated boron compound will reveal itself, by broad bands extending clear across the field, with a certainty contrasting with usual methods of flame or turmeric. E. E. CHANDLER OCCIDENTAL COLLEGE
Los ANGELES, CALIEORNIA
