| Abstract: | Abstract An atomic absorption analysis procedure for cyanide has been developed. The procedure is based upon the solubilization of copper(II) from a basic copper carbonate in an alkaline medium. The amount of copper complexed by the cyanide ion is determined by atomic absorption and a calibration curve is constructed concurrently. The stoichiometry of the cyanide-copper complex is 3:1, implying formation of the complex ion Cu(CN)? 3, with no formation of CuCN observed at the low concentration of cyanide used. The method is used primarily for analyzing low levels of cyanide; the sensitivity of the method extending down to 2.0 × 10?5 M CN?. The most likely interference, iron, is considered. Finally, recovery of cyanide from spiked samples is demonstrated. |
