Analyterna

Analyterna is a term used in analytical chemistry and related disciplines to denote the substances in a sample that are the focus of analysis. Analyterna, or analytes in English, are the components whose identity and quantity are of interest in a given measurement. They can be chemical compounds, ions, biological markers, or other constituents whose presence or concentration is being studied.

Analytical work with analyterna proceeds through sampling, sample preparation to extract or concentrate the analytes, and separation if necessary. Detection and quantification are achieved with instrumentation such as chromatography (gas or liquid), mass spectrometry, spectroscopy, or immunoassays. Calibration against standards and the assessment of uncertainty are essential to convert instrument signals into accurate concentration values.

Analytical contexts include clinical chemistry (for example glucose or cholesterol in blood), environmental monitoring (heavy metals or pesticides in water), pharmacology (drug levels in plasma), and food safety (additives or contaminants). The concept emphasizes that a given analysis targets specific analytes while other sample components form the matrix that can affect measurement.

Etymology and usage: the term reflects the core idea of analyzing a sample to determine its analytes. The concept is used across languages and disciplines, and the word analyt is linked to the broader field of analytical chemistry. See also analyte, analytical chemistry, chromatography, mass spectrometry, spectroscopy.