Chemistry 426 Study Guide

Instruments & Electronics chapters 1, 2 (limited), 3, and 5.

Student Should Be Able To:

1. Identify the common characteristics, and differences between, at least 8 different instrumental techniques.

2. Define and explain the function of: signal generators, transducers, detectors, signal processors, and readouts.

3. Identify and give the rational for the factors used in selecting an instrumental method.

4. Explain the "figures of merit" for an instrumental method. e.g. bias, sensitivity, detection limit, LOD, LOQ, LOL, and selectivity.

5. Explain what happens to a circuit when a "range knob" is turned to allow for an increased input value to be read.

6. Identify the sources of 6 types of noise.

7. Define "signal to noise ratio" and explain its importance.

8. Explain three different ways how you can improve the signal to noise ratio.

9. Draw an operational amplifier that can serve as an 1) integrator, 2) a device that can multiply or divide, 3) differentiator, and 4) a device that can add or subtract.

10. Be able to explain how political decisions are made using science and the effect small changes in noise and detection limit can have on such decisions.