Detektionsgräns

Detektionsgräns refers to the lowest concentration or amount of a substance that can be reliably distinguished from a blank sample or background noise. It is a crucial parameter in analytical chemistry and various scientific fields, indicating the sensitivity of an analytical method or instrument. A lower detection limit signifies a more sensitive measurement. This limit is not the same as the quantitative limit, which is the lowest concentration that can be measured with acceptable precision and accuracy. The detection limit is typically determined by statistical analysis of measurements of a blank sample or a series of low-concentration standards. Commonly, it is defined as three times the standard deviation of the blank signal. Different fields may use slightly different definitions or approaches to calculate the detection limit. It is essential for interpreting results, especially when analyzing trace amounts of substances, and for comparing the performance of different analytical techniques. For example, in environmental monitoring, a low detection limit is necessary to identify pollutants at very low concentrations. Similarly, in medical diagnostics, it allows for the detection of disease markers at early stages. Understanding the detection limit helps in setting appropriate quality control measures and in making informed decisions based on analytical data.