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A branch of chemistry that deals with the development and use of techniques for chemical measurement. These techniques are used in analysing the chemical composition of substances. Chemical analysis may be qualitative or quantitative. Qualitative analysis involves attempting to identify what materials are present in a sample. Answering the question: ‘What is it?’. Quantitative analysis involves determining how much of a material is present in a sample. Answering the question: ‘How much is present?’.
The techniques of analytical chemistry are designed to test a sample of a substance for the characteristics of a particular element or compound. Some methods involve chemical reactions unique to a substance. Other techniques measure a substance's characteristic absorption or emission of light and other forms of electromagnetic radiation. Chemists use a technique called electroanalysis to observe the responses of a sample to electrical signals. Still another method, mass spectroscopy, enables researchers to identify compounds by measuring the mass of the different parts of a molecule.
Complex substances, such as body fluids and industrial chemicals, may be separated into their components before being analysed. Methods of separation include chromatography and extraction.
Analytical chemistry provides important information for science and industry. For example, chemical analysis is used to test samples of air, soil, and water to identify pollutants. Medical technicians use analytical methods to help in the diagnosis of disease. Raw materials and products in the food, drug, and other industries are analysed in quality control tests.
Modern analytical methods make it possible to identify hundreds of components in a single sample and to detect specific substances present in less than one part per million. Even more efficient methods are being developed with the help of such technological advances as lasers and microcomputers.
General requirements for an analytical chemist include good technical aptitude, good human relations, and the ability to organize and take lead when necessary. Normal office hours for an analytical chemist are generally when you are expected to be in the laboratory unless you are busy with research which has no set times and can be done indoors, outdoors or in a totally different environment. Forensic crime labs are a prime place for the use of analytical chemistry. The minimum requirements for a Forensic Scientist Trainee in the Analytical Division include a Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university in chemistry or any other natural science, physical, or forensic science with a minimum of 24 semester hours of chemistry, some of which must include analytical chemistry.
Analytical chemistry is entangled in almost every branch of our lives. From solving crimes to weeding out harmful chemicals used in consumer products or helping break new ground in the medical field. No matter where analytical chemistry is used, it is almost always helping to bring a better quality of life to society.
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