Microscopy and Analytical Chemistry

These flashcards cover key concepts and terminology related to microscopy and the analytical process.

Microscopy

The process of using a microscope to observe small objects or structures.

Analytical Chemistry

The branch of chemistry focused on the qualitative and quantitative analysis of substances.

Analytical Process Steps

1. Formulating the question 2. Selecting analytical procedures 3. Sampling 4. Sample preparation 5. Analysis 6. Reporting and interpretation 7. Drawing conclusions.

Formulating the Question

The initial step in the analytical process that defines the objective of the analysis.

Sample Preparation

The procedure of preparing a sample before analysis including diluting, separating, and activating.

Refractive Index

A measure of how much light is bent, or refracted, when entering a material.

Birefringence

The optical phenomenon in which a material has a different index of refraction depending on the polarization and propagation direction of light.

Microcrystalline Test

A technique used to detect the presence of specific substances, such as cocaine, by forming characteristic crystals.

Sampling

The process of collecting representative portions of material for analysis.

Reporting and Interpretation

The stage where data is evaluated and results are communicated.

Drawing Conclusions

The final step in analysis where results are interpreted to determine the outcome of the inquiry.

Calibration

The process of adjusting an instrument to ensure accurate measurements.

Resolution

The ability of a microscope to distinguish between two closely spaced objects.

Signal to Noise Ratio

A measure of the level of desired signal versus the level of background noise.

Contrast

The difference in visual properties that makes an object distinguishable from other objects within the same field of view.

Digital Image Acquisition

The process of capturing images in a digital format for analysis.

Image Formation

The process of creating an image from light interacting with matter.

Light-Matter Interaction

The ways in which light interacts with various materials, affecting how images are formed.

Optical Aberration

Optical imperfections that cause image distortion or blurring.

Noise in Images

Unwanted variations in brightness or color that can obscure important details in an image.

Morphology

The study of the form and structure of organisms or objects, often used in forensic analysis.

Human Hair Identification

Differentiating between human and non-human hairs based on structural characteristics.

Fiber Analysis

The examination of fibers to determine their origin and composition, often used in forensic science.

Powder Analysis

The methods used to identify substances in powdered form, such as drugs.

Light Propagation

The movement of light through different media which influences its speed and direction.

Color Theory

The study of how colors interact, including how they can be combined or altered.

Testing for Synthetic Fibers

Techniques used to determine if a fiber is natural or synthetic based on its characteristics.

Measurement Uncertainty

The doubt that exists about the result of a measurement, often reported as a range.

Contrast Enhancement

Techniques that improve the visibility of features within an image.

Detailed Protocol

A comprehensive description of procedures followed during an analysis, ensuring reproducibility.

50 Micron

A measurement indicating a distance of 50 micrometers, often used in microscopy.

Cotton Fiber Properties

Characteristics of cotton fibers, which can include color, structure, and reactivity.

Glass Analysis

The study of the properties and components of glass materials in forensic contexts.

Dilution in Chemistry

The process of reducing the concentration of a solute in a solution, typically by adding solvent.

Excitation in Instrumentation

The process of adding energy to a system to produce a measurable signal.

Interpretative Analysis

Analyzing data in context to draw conclusions based on evidence.

Analytical Uncertainty

The degree of variability in measurements due to inherent limitations of techniques used.