The determination of magnesium in biological materials by atomic absorption spectrophotometry

Abstract

An instrument suitable for the determination of magnesium by atomic absorption spectrophotometry is described. Analyses may be carried out on serum, urine, blood cells and solutions of the ash from food or faecal materials after simple dilution and acidification with hydrochloric acid. No significant effect is produced by other inorganic ions. The organic constituents of samples cause slight overestimation of the magnesium concentrations. The magnesium ammonium phosphate method is examined and its accuracy determined. Comparison between analyses carried out by the ammonium phosphate method and the atomic absorption procedure shows the latter to be accurate to within 2% of the absolute value.