Ohio Lead Risk Assessor Practice Exam 2025 - Free Lead Risk Assessor Practice Questions and Study Guide

The laboratory method commonly used to analyze wipe samples for lead and other heavy metals is atomic absorption spectrometry. This technique is particularly suited for detecting trace amounts of metals because it allows for precise measurement of metallic concentrations in a sample. When wipe samples are collected from surfaces suspected of contamination, atomic absorption spectrometry can accurately quantify the lead levels present, making it critical in assessing lead exposure risks in environments such as homes and schools.

The method works by first vaporizing the sample in a flame or graphite furnace, which then produces free atoms that can absorb specific wavelengths of light. By measuring the amount of light absorbed, the concentration of lead in the sample can be determined with a high degree of accuracy. This level of specificity and sensitivity is essential for effective risk assessment and remediation planning.

In contrast, the other methods listed, while useful for different applications, are not the standard for analyzing wipe samples for lead. For example, gas chromatography is primarily used for separating and analyzing compounds that can be vaporized without decomposition, and mass spectrometry, while powerful for identifying and quantifying various substances, typically requires additional sample preparation and is not directly suited for the straightforward analysis of wipe samples in lead assessments. Infrared spectroscopy is more relevant for characterizing organic compounds rather than metals