Quantitative & Qualitative Analysis

What is qualitative analysis?

It is the analysis of a substance based on observed qualities such as colour, texture, or odour— no numbers involved.

Give an example of qualitative analysis

Identifying metal ions in fireworks based on the colour of the flames

What is quantitative analysis?

It is the analysis of a substance based on measurable amounts (numbers with units), such as mass, volume, or concentration.

Give an example of quantitative analysis

Measuring the mass of salt in a water sample in grams

Does determining the state of matter (solid, liquid, or gas) require qualitative or quantitative analysis?

Qualitative— it involves observation, not measurement.

Does measuring the mass of an object require qualitative or quantitative analysis?

Quantitative— mass is a numerical value.

Does measuring the density of an object require qualitative or quantitative analysis?

Quantitative— density = mass / volume —> both of which are measured numerically.

Does measuring solubility require qualitative or quantitative analysis?

Quantitative— it involves the mass of solute dissolved in a volume of solvent.

Does describing the odour of a substance require qualitative or quantitative analysis?

Qualitative— odour is based on senses not numbers.