Sampling, Sample

Sample Sample Sample Sample Sample Sample Sample Sample... 

Pollutant Samples Detections Samples Samples Samples Detections Samples Samples... 

Sample Sample Sample Source and Mass LOD Linear Range Year and ... 

These equations apply when an entire population is available for measurement. The most common situation in practical problems is one in which the number of measurements is smaller than the entire population. A group of selected measurements smaller than the population is called a sample. Sample statistics are slightly different from population statistics but, for large samples, the equations of sample statistics approach those of population statistics. 

To minimize the multiple path and mass transfer contributions to plate height (equations 12.23 and 12.26), the packing material should be of as small a diameter as is practical and loaded with a thin film of stationary phase (equation 12.25). Compared with capillary columns, which are discussed in the next section, packed columns can handle larger amounts of sample. Samples of 0.1-10 )J,L are routinely analyzed with a packed column. Column efficiencies are typically several hundred to 2000 plates/m, providing columns with 3000-10,000 theoretical plates. Assuming Wiax/Wiin is approximately 50, a packed column with 10,000 theoretical plates has a peak capacity (equation 12.18) of... 

Precision The precision of a gas chromatographic analysis includes contributions from sampling, sample preparation, and the instrument. The relative standard deviation due to the gas chromatographic portion of the analysis is typically 1-5%, although it can be significantly higher. The principal limitations to precision are detector noise and the reproducibility of injection volumes. In quantitative work, the use of an internal standard compensates for any variability in injection volumes. 

Sampling Plan. The first step to assuring accuracy, ie, the conformity of the measured value to the tme or expected value (23), is to obtain a representative sample. Sampling may be the responsibiUty of either production or of QC. A written sampling plan approved by QC should be followed. It is the responsibihty of the QC unit to ensure that samples represent all the material under evaluation. 

There are advantages to direct solid sampling. Sample preparation is less time consuming and less prone to contamination, and the analysis of microsamples is more straightforward. However, calibration may be more difficult than with solution samples, requiring standards that are matched more closely to the sample. Precision is typically 5% to 10% because of sample inhomogeneity and variations in the sample vaporization step. 

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