Analytical chem

Reagent Blank

A blank sample containing all components except for analyte that has not been subjected to the steps of chemical analysis

Dynamic Range

concentration interval over which there is a measurable response to a change in analyte concentration

Field Blank

A blank samples exposed to the environment at the sample collection site and transported in the same manner as other samples to the lab

Linear Range

The concentration interval over which the change in detector response is proportional to the analyte quantity

Method blank

Blank sample containing all components except that has been carried through all steps of chemical analysis including sample prep

Detection Limit (LOD)

Smallest quantity of analyte that can be distinguished from the blank (3s/m)

Specificity

The ability of a method to differentiate the analyte from the rest of the sample

Robustness

Ability of a method to be unaffected by small, purposeful changes in operational parameters

Quantitation Limit

Smallest amount of analyte that can be reliably measured 10s/m

Standard addition

Known quantities of the analyte added to the unknown

it is the method of choice when the matric of the sample may affect the signal

External Standard

Consists of a series of standard analyte solutions separate from the unknown

to ensure instrument response as a function of a known analyte concentration under set conditions

Internal Standard

Known amount of standard (different from analyte) added to the unknown

Method of choice when instrument response or amount of sample analyzed varies from run to run