Analysing Results

Analysing Results

Part 1: Understanding Calibration Curves:

Be capable of plotting and interpreting calibration curves.
Recognise that these curves establish the relationship between instrument response and analyte concentration.
Understand the usage of calibration curves to determine the concentration of analyte in unknown samples.

Part 2: Error Analysis:

Be able to identify and understand different types of errors such as random and systematic errors.
Be comfortable with calculating absolute and relative errors.
Learn to use standard deviation as a measure of spread of results around the mean.
Understand the meaning of confidence intervals and their interpretation.

Part 3: Spectral Data Analysis:

Be familiar with analysing and interpreting infrared (IR) and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectra.
Understand the principles of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and how to analyse NMR spectra.
Know how to apply these skills to identify unknown compounds.

Part 4: Chromatographic Data Analysis:

Understand the principle of retention time in chromatography and its use in identifying compounds.
Familiarise yourself with the construction and interpretation of chromatograms.
Know how to use peak area or peak height to determine concentrations.

Part 5: Stoichiometric Calculations:

Be capable of performing stoichiometric calculations based on balanced chemical equations.
Be comfortable with limiting reagent concepts and calculations.
Understand the meaning of theoretical yield, actual yield and percentage yield.
Recognise the importance of these parameters in evaluating the efficiency of chemical reactions.

Part 6: Evaluating Techniques and Methods:

Understand how to evaluate a technique or method based on accuracy, precision, reproducibility, and repeatability.
Know how to improve a method or technique by identifying potential sources of error or inaccuracy.
Understand the importance of critical thinking in experimental design and data analysis.