Instrumentation for Trace Metal Determination in Collaborative Geology, Chemistry and Environmental Studies Projects

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A cold vapor atomic absorption spectrometer for trace level ( 10 ppb) mercury determinations and a graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometer for determination of other heavy metals ( sub ppb) are providing information on the concentrations of metals in water, waste water, and sediments to collaborative geoscience, chemistry, and environmental science projects. The instrumentation is used in the Departments of geology, Chemistry/Biochemistry, and in the Environmental Studies program to enhance the laboratory curricula. This instrumentation facilities collaboration between the college and outside organizations. The identifying theme of the project is the determination of trace metals in the waters and sediments of Lake Champlain. The location of the college near the lake, makes it a natural laboratory for course work and undergraduate research. Access to this unique opportunity is enhanced by a 32 foot research vessel owned by the college. Samples include sewage sludge, lake sediments, lake and river water, zebra mussels, and game fish. These samples are providing information necessary to determine the origin, transport, and ultimate fate of metals in this ecosystem. *