Analytical chemistry purpose

Modern analysis begins with a definition and outline of the problem and ends only after a detailed critical evaluation of the relevant analytical data is complete, permitting the presentation of a result ( Analytical Chemistry, Purpose and Procedures). The analyst must therefore retain the ability to monitor a sample conscientiously and knowledgably throughout the analytical process. Only the analyst is in a position to assess the quality of a set of results and the validity of subsequent conclusions, although defining the problem and presenting the conclusions is almost always a cooperative multidisciplinary effort. 

From these preliminary observations it will already have become clear that trace analysis, the focus of much concern in sample preparation, cannot be regarded as an end in itself. Rather, it is a very relevant and applications-oriented branch of analytical chemistry generally, one that, from a historical perspective, developed from within but became independent of chemical analysis as a whole, which was long regarded simply as a servant to the traditional subspecialities of chemistry and other disciplines (- Analytical Chemistry, Purpose and FTocedures). Nevertheless, the same tools, equipment, and methodological principles remain common to both general chemical analysis and modern trace analysis. 

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