Types of Gravimetric Methods

In the previous section we used four examples to illustrate the different ways that mass can serve as an analytical signal. These examples also illustrate the four gravimetric methods of analysis. When the signal is the mass of a precipitate, we call the method precipitation gravimetry. The indirect determination of by precipi- 

In electrogravimetry the analyte is deposited as a solid film on one electrode in an electrochemical cell. The oxidation of Pb +, and its deposition as Pb02 on a Pt anode is one example of electrogravimetry. Reduction also may be used in electrogravimetry. The electrodeposition of Cu on a Pt cathode, for example, provides a direct analysis for Cu +. 

When thermal or chemical energy is used to remove a volatile species, we call the method volatilization gravimetry. In determining the moisture content of food, thermal energy vaporizes the H2O. The amount of carbon in an organic compound may be determined by using the chemical energy of combustion to convert C to CO2. 

Finally, in particulate gravimetry the analyte is determined following its removal from the sample matrix by filtration or extraction. The determination of suspended solids is one example of particulate gravimetry. 

---