Chemistry is the study of the particles that make up the world we live in. It explains what causes the smell before and after the rain. It is the science that reveals the molecules which make up different venom and what they do to our body. It allows us to see all those beautiful colors when we gaze up at the fireworks on the night of the Fourth of July. We can tell you what compounds make chocolate so irresistible. Chemistry also allows us to make medicines which keep us healthy, comfortable and alive. Regardless of what we do we cannot escape the reality; chemistry rules the world around us.
Analytical chemists answer questions. This branch of chemistry allows us to evaluate a sample qualitatively and quantitatively. That is, we look at a substances and separate each compound, which allows for the identification of each component as well as the percent composition of the sample. It has always been of desire to be able to find out more about the chemical species in materials. The ability to preform these measurements effectively is extremely important, as it has application in a variety of different disciplines such as: biomedical, environmental, industrial and forensics. Analytical chemists help ensure that products are safe and of quality for consumers and for the environment. Are the levels of fluorine in this water safe enough for consumption? Is this product of the quality we expect? We can tell you whether or not the desired product was made and how effectively.
There are two different divisions of methods for analyzing samples, classical and instrumental.
Instrumental is more common in today's world. It utilizes a machine to separate different components of the sample and collect data about the physical quantities of the analyte, which allow for identification. Generally, the most time consuming part of this method is letting the samples run through the instrument after sample preparation. It is overall quick and effective. On the other hand, classical methods are the hands on approach which uses no instrumentation aside from a balance. In this approach samples must be separated by methods such as extraction or precipitation and is usually identified by observing the physical properties and chemical reactions of the analyte. Instrumental analysis is extremely powerful and is the elite method for analysis.
Analytical chemists resolve questions that need answers. They are the people who allow us to live life confidently and safely. Without analytical chemistry, life as we know it wouldn't exist.
In upcoming weeks we will look at some technology relevant to analytical chemistry.
Michelle, I love your post. It's beautiful how well you've expressed the adoration chemists feel for the subject. I won't lie - I totally teared up while reading. Also, I had no idea you love analytical chemistry so much! When did you decide that was the field for you, and what has been your favorite method of analysis thus far? I think Analytical is one of the more enjoyable fields in chemistry; there's something so satisfying about being able to quantify the elements and compounds present in a sample.
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