Chapter 0: Q2P (page 9)

List the steps in a chemical analysis.

Short Answer

Expert verified

In order for ananalytical result to be accurate, each step must be completed correctly.

The steps involved in a chemical analysis are (1) sampling, (2) field sample pre-treatment, (3) laboratory treatment, (4) laboratory test, (5) calculations, and (6) findings presentation. These six steps are the key stages conducted during a chemical analysis

Step by step solution

Definition of chemical analysis

Chemical analysis is the study of a substance's chemical composition and structure.
More broadly, it can be thought of as the collection of all procedures for obtaining precise chemical data.
In analytical chemistry, there are two types of analysis: qualitative and quantitative.

Steps of chemical analysis

In order to produce a meaningful conclusion, there are seven general steps in ananalytical process that must be completed:

1. Formulating the question:To shift from a broad query (e.g., "Is this water safe to drink?") to a question that can be answered through chemical analysis (e.g., "Does this water contain any harmful elements, and if so, how much?").

2. Choosing an appropriate analytical technique:To look for the relevant literature as well as an appropriate analytical method that can deliver the required measurements.

3. Sampling:The process of picking a part(s) of a material that is typical of anentire material.

4. Sample preparation:Transforming our general sample into a form suitable for chemical analysis (e.g., dissolving, masking, etc.)

5. Analyze:We can analyze by using our quantitative analytical method of choice on a sample that has been prepared,whichcan test the concentration of an analyte in a few similar quantities this way (aliquots).

6. Reporting and interpretation: once we have the data, we need to prepare a report that includes our interpretation of the findings as well as our conclusions. It is possible to draw attention to certain details and restrictions.

7. Drawing conclusions: In order to have a better grasp of our findings and correctly communicate them, we could create a graphic representation of the findings.