7.1. Measurement Procedure

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define what a sample is in the context of environmental monitoring.

   Hint

   What do we do to represent a larger population?

2. 2.

   What is the purpose of setting sampling objectives?

   Hint

   Why is it important to know what you want to find?

3. 3.

   What does the term ‘sensitivity’ refer to in analytical measurements?

   • The ability to detect small changes.
   • The accuracy of measurements.
   • The volume of a sample taken.

   Hint

   It’s about noticing small differences!

4. 4.

   True or False: If the readings on an instrument fluctuate significantly, it may indicate low sensitivity.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about what you observe when you use an instrument.

5. 5.

   Given a sample volume of 2 liters, if the detection limit of your instrument is 0.001 mg/L, what is the minimum mass of the analyte you expect to measure?

   Hint

   Convert the volume into mg by using the detection limit.

6. 6.

   You measure TSS of a water sample repeatedly and get values of 25 mg/L, 30 mg/L, and 28 mg/L. Calculate the average TSS and discuss its precision.

   Hint

   The average shows the central tendency of your results.