What are the types of chemical analysis?

Chemical analysis is broadly classified into two main types: qualitative analysis and quantitative analysis. Here’s a detailed explanation:

1. Qualitative Analysis

• Purpose: To determine what chemical substances are present in a sample.
• Focus: Identification of elements, ions, or compounds.
• Methods:
  • Classical (Wet) Methods:
    • Precipitation reactions (e.g., detecting chloride with silver nitrate)
    • Flame tests for metal ions
  • Instrumental Methods:
    • Spectroscopy (e.g., UV-Vis, IR, Atomic Absorption)
    • Chromatography (TLC, GC, HPLC)
• Example: Determining if a water sample contains sulfate ions.

2. Quantitative Analysis

• Purpose: To determine how much of a substance is present in a sample.
• Focus: Measurement of concentration or amount.
• Methods:
  • Gravimetric Analysis: Measuring mass after forming a pure compound (precipitate).
  • Volumetric Analysis (Titration): Using a solution of known concentration to determine unknown concentration.
  • Instrumental Methods:
    • Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) for metal concentrations
    • Chromatography for component quantification
    • Mass spectrometry for precise molecular amounts
• Example: Measuring the amount of sodium in a water sample.