Chapter 1, Problem 1.1QAP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The transducer in an analytical instrument should be explained.

Concept introduction:

Analytical instruments are used to provide information based on composition of sample of matter. These instruments are employed in order to obtain both qualitative as well as quantitative information of one or more components which are present or absent in a given sample. Analytical instruments are comprised of four basic elements and they are:

1. Chemical information source.
2. Transducers.
3. Signal conditioners.
4. Display system.

Explanation of Solution

An instrument which is used for chemical analysis converts the information related to the analyte physical or chemical characteristics into the information which can be easily manipulated as well as interpreted by humans.

Transducers play a vital role in analysis process. The real physical world data can be converted into a measurable form with the help of these devices. Transducer is a device which can convert any form of signal into electrical signals or vice versa. They can either be used at input or output of a system. There are many factors which are considered while selecting a type of transducer used for a task. They are sensitivity, range, accuracy, precision, linearity, size and cost.

The transducers used at the input converts chemical or physical information into electrical signals like current, voltage or charge and they are termed as input transducers. While the transducer which are used at output converts electrical signals into non-electrical form and they are termed as output transducers.

Few examples of transducers are photo-diode, photo-multiplier and other electrical photo-detectors which produce current or voltage that is proportional to the radiant power of electromagnetic radiation falling on their surface.