Question

2. Many spectroscopic techniques require an optimal compromise between selectivity and sensitivity. Define these two analytical figures of merit and explain why the compromise is necessary (Hint: Think about how the spectrometer slit width would affect the Raman analysis of a calcium ascorbate sample with impurities with peaks that overlap with those of calcium ascorbate).

Answer 1

.Sensitivity is the change of the response with regard to a change in the concentration and is equivalent to the slope of a calibration line.

Selectivity is the quality of response that can be achieved without interference for any other substance

Figure of Merit is a numerical quantity based on one or more characteristics of a system representing a major of efficiency.

compromise is necessary because qualities have competing mechanism.