List and explain the terminologies used in analytical chemistry and explain the field where analytical chemistry is applied.6 pages and 5 references
Introduction
Analytical chemistry is a branch of chemistry that focuses on identifying, quantifying, and determining the chemical composition of substances. It involves the use of various techniques and instruments to analyze samples and provide information about their composition. In the field of analytical chemistry, there are several terminologies that are commonly used to describe the techniques and methods used in analyzing samples. This paper will discuss some of the key terminologies used in analytical chemistry and provide an overview of the field where analytical chemistry is applied.
Terminologies used in Analytical Chemistry
1. Analyte - The analyte is the substance that is being analyzed in a sample. It is the component of interest whose identity or concentration is to be determined.
2. Standard - A standard is a substance of known composition that is used for comparison in analytical measurements. Standards are used to calibrate instruments, validate methods, and determine the accuracy of analytical results.
3. Calibration - Calibration is the process of determining the relationship between the signal produced by an analytical instrument and the concentration of the analyte in a sample. Calibration is essential for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of analytical measurements.
4. Accuracy - Accuracy refers to how close the measured value is to the true value of the analyte. It is a measure of the correctness of the analytical results.
5. Precision - Precision refers to the reproducibility or consistency of analytical measurements. It measures the degree of agreement between repeated measurements of the same sample.
6. Detection limit - The detection limit is the lowest concentration of an analyte that can be reliably detected by an analytical method. It is a measure of the sensitivity of an analytical technique.
7. Quantitation limit - The quantitation limit is the lowest concentration of an analyte that can be accurately quantified by an analytical method. It is a measure of the precision and accuracy of the method for determining the concentration of the analyte.
8. Analytical method - An analytical method is a procedure or technique used to analyze samples and determine the composition of substances. Analytical methods can be qualitative, quantitative, or both, depending on the information required.
9. Chromatography - Chromatography is a separation technique used in analytical chemistry to separate and identify the components of a mixture based on their differential partitioning between a stationary phase and a mobile phase.
10. Spectroscopy - Spectroscopy is a technique used in analytical chemistry to analyze the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with matter. It is used to identify and quantify the chemical composition of substances based on their absorption, emission, or scattering of light.
Field of Application
Analytical chemistry is a fundamental discipline with applications in various fields, including:
1. Environmental analysis - Analytical chemistry is used to monitor and analyze environmental pollutants, contaminants, and toxins in air, water, soil, and food. It plays a crucial role in assessing the impact of human activities on the environment and in developing strategies for environmental protection and remediation.
2. Pharmaceutical analysis - Analytical chemistry is used in the pharmaceutical industry to ensure the quality, safety, and efficacy of pharmaceutical products. It is used to analyze the composition of drugs, detect impurities, and determine the concentration of active ingredients.
3. Food analysis - Analytical chemistry is used in food testing and quality control to ensure the safety and nutritional value of food products. It is used to analyze food additives, contaminants, allergens, and nutrients to meet regulatory standards and consumer requirements.
4. Forensic analysis - Analytical chemistry is used in forensic science to analyze trace evidence, identify unknown substances, and solve crimes. It is used to analyze blood, hair, fibers, drugs, explosives, and other materials found at crime scenes.
5. Material analysis - Analytical chemistry is used in materials science to analyze the composition and properties of materials. It is used to study the structure, morphology, and chemical composition of materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and nanomaterials.
Conclusion
Analytical chemistry is a vital discipline that plays a crucial role in various fields, including environmental analysis, pharmaceutical analysis, food analysis, forensic analysis, and material analysis. The terminologies used in analytical chemistry, such as analyte, standard, accuracy, precision, calibration, detection limit, and chromatography, are essential for understanding and interpreting analytical data. By applying analytical chemistry techniques and methods, scientists and researchers can analyze samples, determine the composition of substances, and solve complex problems in science and industry.
References:
1. Skoog, D. A., Holler, F. J., & Crouch, S. R. (2017). Principles of instrumental analysis. Cengage Learning.
2. Harvey, D. (2017). Modern analytical chemistry. Oxford University Press.
3. Christian, G. D. (2014). Analytical chemistry. John Wiley & Sons.
4. Hulanicki, A., Glab, S., & Ingman, F. (2012). Chemical sensors: definitions and classification. Pure and Applied Chemistry, 74(5), 725-748.
5. Welcher, F. J. (2016). Standard and reference materials used in analytical chemistry. Analytical Chemistry, 28(5), 587-588.