Analytical chemistry
Analytical chemistry uses different instruments to separate, identify and quantify what is present in a sample. The analysis can either be qualitative, to identify the analytes, or quantitative, with methods for determining concentration and amounts of compounds.
Flame atomic emission spectroscopy was developed in 1860 by Robert Bunsen and Gustav Kirchhoff and is considered one of the first instrumental analytical techniques. This technique is used to identify elements from the wavelength of light emitted after being supplied with enough energy, like using a hot flame.
Analytical techniques, such as gas chromatography and solid phase extraction, are used to separate compounds before methods like nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy are used to identify what the sample contains. Analytical chemistry is used across many areas of research and in other applications, such as environmental analysis and forensics. To find more of the latest published research in analytical chemistry, read our peer-reviewed journal content here.