Factors Influencing the Quality of Analytical Methods— A Systems Analysis, with Use of Computer Simulation

Abstract

Abstract A systems analysis was performed, to evaluate the influence of various types of systematic and random errors that are characteristic of the analytical procedure proper and the calibration procedure for an analytical method. For this purpose, a simulation procedure was devised describing the effect on the analytical result of factors such as number and precision of calibration samples (standards) in a given segment of the analytical series, concentration range of the calibration samples, approximation of a curved characteristic function to a straight line, base-line and sensitivity drift, contamination, and different types of correction for drift and contamination. The systems analysis showed that the total error of an analytical method not only depends on the inherent random error of the analytical procedure but is also strongly influenced by the factors mentioned. We conclude that the simulation procedure is a valuable tool for minimizing the effect of these factors and for designing an analytical series that is optimal with respect to existing conditions.