This application note gives a complete solution for determining the total nitrogen content in water using a METTLER TOLEDO EasyPlus UV/VIS spectrophotometer.
What Accounts for Total Nitrogen in Water?
Water contains nitrogen in both organic and inorganic forms. The main source of nitrogen in water is the use of fertilizers containing nitrate, urea, ammonium, and amines in agricultural activities. Total nitrogen present in water is the sum of organic and inorganic nitrogen compounds.
Why Is It Necessary to Determine Total Nitrogen in Water?
Nitrogen is an essential element for all living organisms. Planktons and algae feed on the nitrates, nitrites, and ammonia in water. However, at very high concentrations of nitrogen, the growth of plankton and algae increases leading to the deprivation of oxygen for fish. Therefore, it becomes essential to determine the total nitrogen in water.
How to Determine Total Nitrogen Spectroscopically?
In this application note, the total nitrogen in water is determined using a Spectroquant® Merck cell test kit (1.14763) and a EasyPlus UV/VIS spectrophotometer. In this method, both organic and inorganic nitrogen is converted to nitrate which then reacts with 2,6-dimethylphenol to form 4-nitro-2,6-dimethylphenol. The absorbance of 4-nitro-2,6-dimethylphenol is measured at 340 nm to quantify the total nitrogen in water.
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