Mass of fluorine
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Understanding the Mass of Fluorine: Key Insights from Recent Research
Atomic Weight of Fluorine
The atomic weight of fluorine has been a subject of detailed investigation. Various studies have reported slightly different values due to methodological differences. For instance, one study highlighted that the atomic weight of fluorine could be derived from the limiting densities of silicon fluoride, yielding values of 19.09 and 18.995, though these values were not deemed highly significant due to theoretical calculation discrepancies. Another study revised the molecular weight of methyl fluoride, suggesting an atomic weight of 19.010, but this value was contested due to potential errors in the analytical methods used. Further research indicated that the atomic weight of fluorine is likely greater than 19.00, with values such as 19.009 and 19.010 being supported by different chemical analyses.
Fluorine in Environmental and Biological Samples
Fluorine in Human Serum
A comprehensive study on human serum from the Tromsø population over 28 years applied a fluorine mass balance (FMB) approach. This study measured total fluorine (TF), extractable organic fluorine (EOF), total oxidizable precursors (TOP), and selected target per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The findings revealed that while TF levels remained constant, EOF was significantly higher in 1986 compared to 2007 and 2015. Additionally, the concentration of 12 target PFAS was highest in 2007, and unidentified EOF (UEOF) varied over the years, indicating changes in exposure sources and types of fluorine compounds present in human serum.
Fluorine in North Atlantic Waters
New data on fluorine content in North Atlantic waters was obtained using direct potentiometry with a fluoride ion-selective electrode. The measured fluorine concentration was 1.27 mg/kg, which aligns with the normal fluorine content in seawater. The F/Cl mass ratio was found to be consistent across different areas of the World Ocean, suggesting low variability in fluorine content in seawater salts.
Analytical Techniques for Fluorine Detection
Electrothermal Vaporisation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ETV-ICP-MS)
One advanced method for detecting fluoride ions in aqueous samples involves using electrothermal vaporisation coupled with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ETV-ICP-MS). This technique prevents the loss of fluorine during the drying process by using a chemical modifier and achieves a detection limit of 0.29 µg of fluoride ion. The calibration curve for this method is linear up to 100 µg, with a relative standard deviation of 3.6% for 5.0 µg of fluoride ion.
High-Sensitivity Elemental Mass Spectrometry
Another innovative approach for fluorine analysis is high-sensitivity elemental mass spectrometry using ionization in plasma afterglow. This method significantly improves the sensitivity for fluorine detection, achieving detection limits of around 50 ppb. It also offers compound-independent quantitation, making it suitable for various applications, including pharmaceutical and environmental analyses.
Conclusion
The mass of fluorine, particularly its atomic weight, has been extensively studied, with values generally around 19.00. Environmental and biological studies have provided insights into fluorine content and exposure, while advanced analytical techniques have enhanced the detection and quantification of fluorine in various samples. These findings collectively contribute to a better understanding of fluorine's role and presence in different contexts.
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