Abstract: A method and apparatus for separating the liquid and gas components of a liquid/gas stream and particularly for use in chemical analysis systems such as atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The liquid/gas stream is introduced into a separation chamber so as to impact against an upstanding tube located within that chamber and the surface of which is treated to encourage adhesion thereto of the liquid component. An enlargement of the tube above the zone of impact minimizes carry-over of spray to the upper region of the chamber. The liquid/gas stream includes the sample to be analyzed together with a quantity of carrier gas, and a further quantity of carrier gas is introduced into the upper region of the chamber through the aforementioned tube. A gas exhaust opening is provided at the top of the chamber.