The estimation of magnesium in small biological samples by flame spectrophotometry.

Studies of human magnesium metabolism in this laboratory called for a simple and reliable method of estimating the magnesium content of large numbers of small biological specimens (Montgomery, 1960). It has been found that a technique involving the Unicam S.P. 900 flame spectrophotometer fulfils this need. Estimations have been made on serum, red cells, urine, and acid digests of muscle and faeces. A standard instrument was used, burning acetylene and air, with a new standard atomiser containing a metal jet. Readings were made at the atomic line of 285.2 mmu.