Analytical chemistry
Analytical chemistry is the branch of chemistry devoted to understanding the composition and nature of matter, as well as the changes that occur during chemical reactions. It encompasses a wide range of techniques and methods used to analyze and quantify the chemical components of various substances.
About
It encompasses a wide range of techniques and methods used to analyze and quantify the chemical components of various substances. The field of analytical chemistry has its roots in the ancient practice of alchemy, but it has evolved significantly over time. Modern analytical chemists utilize both classical and modern techniques to investigate different aspects of chemical analysis. Classical analytical techniques include gravimetric analysis, which involves measuring the mass of a substance to determine its composition, and titration, which uses volume measurements to determine the concentration of a particular substance. These techniques are still widely used today, especially in industrial and environmental analysis. Modern analytical chemistry relies heavily on instrumental methods such as spectroscopy, chromatography, and mass spectrometry. Spectroscopy involves analyzing the interaction between matter and electromagnetic radiation, while chromatography separates mixtures into individual components for analysis. Mass spectrometry measures the mass-to-charge ratio of ions to identify and quantify substances. Analytical chemistry plays a crucial role in various fields, including pharmaceuticals, environmental monitoring, forensic science, and food science. It helps ensure the quality and safety of products, identify and quantify pollutants in air, water, and soil, and detect and analyze drugs and toxins in biological samples. The Wikipedia page on analytical chemistry provides a comprehensive overview of the subject, covering its history, principles, techniques, and applications. It also includes information on notable analytical chemists, organizations, and journals in the field.