WMO Education and Training Programme

What Is the Role of Analytical Standards in Chemistry?

Instrument Calibration
Analytical standards are used to calibrate analytical instruments, ensuring the accuracy of measurement results. For example, in chromatography, standards can be used to calibrate the instrument's response curve, thereby improving the precision of quantitative analysis.

Method Validation
By comparing with standards, the performance indicators of analytical methods, such as sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility, can be evaluated. This helps ensure the scientific validity and reliability of the analytical methods.

Quantitative Analysis
Standards are the foundation of quantitative analysis. With standards of known concentration, the content of target substances in unknown samples can be accurately determined. For instance, in High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), standards are used to create standard curves for quantitative analysis.

Quality Control
Standards play a key role in quality control systems. By regularly testing and verifying products, standards help monitor product quality, ensuring it meets technical specifications.

Method Development and Optimization
Standards are used in the development and optimization of new analytical methods. By comparing with standards, the feasibility and accuracy of new methods can be assessed.

International Traceability
Prioritizing standards with international traceability ensures that analytical results are consistent with international standards. This is particularly important in international trade and scientific research collaborations.

What Are the 9 Types of Analytical Standards?

• Single-Component Standards
• Multi-Component Standards
• Quality Control Standards
• Certified Reference Materials (CRM)
• Calibration Standards
• Stability Standards
• Isotopic Standards
• Benchmark Standards
• Standard Solutions