A large portion of this course deals with methods that are used to determine how much of a material is present.

We need to review the general steps that are taken for any quantitative method. These steps are taken to insure an accurate and reliable answer.

For most methods, we measure a response that is proportional to the concentration of our analyte. Gravimetric - Weight of a precipitate. Titration - Volume of a titrant required. Spectrophotometric - light absorbed. Chromatographic - peak area.

We must establish the relationship between measured response and concentration of our analyte.
Canalyte = f(x) where Canalyte X = concentration = technique response.

Most methods attempt to make f(x) a linear relationship Canalyte = mX + b

Each method includes many steps that one must consider before doing even one analysis. Each is dependent on the technique to be used, the type of sample and the desired results. As we discuss each method, well consider these factors and how to best address them.