CHEMICAL SAMPLE Meaning and
Definition
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A chemical sample refers to a small, representative portion or specimen obtained from a larger quantity of a substance for the purpose of analysis, evaluation, experimentation, or identification. It is a physical representation of a chemical compound, mixture, or substance that is extracted or isolated from its surroundings to be studied in a specific context.
Chemical samples are crucial tools in various scientific disciplines, including chemistry, biology, pharmacology, and materials science. These samples allow scientists to investigate the properties, interactions, and behavior of a substance under specific conditions.
Chemical samples can be collected from various sources such as natural materials, industrial processes, laboratory synthesis, or biological organisms. They are often obtained through techniques like extraction, purification, filtration, distillation, or crystallization, depending on the nature and complexity of the targeted substance.
Once a chemical sample is obtained, it is typically analyzed using a range of techniques such as spectroscopy, chromatography, microscopy, or titration to determine its composition, structure, purity, concentration, or any other relevant properties. The results obtained from studying chemical samples provide valuable insights into the characteristics and potential applications of the substance, aiding in the development of new materials, drugs, formulations, or processes.
Chemical samples are typically stored and handled with special care to prevent contamination or degradation. They are usually labeled or cataloged with information such as the origin, date of collection, preservation methods, and any specific hazards associated with the substance, ensuring proper identification and safe handling in scientific research and industrial settings.
Etymology of CHEMICAL SAMPLE
The word "chemical" originated from the late 16th century, derived from the French word "chimique" or medieval Latin "chimicus", ultimately derived from the Arabic word "al-kīmiyā", which referred to the art of transforming natural substances. This, in turn, can be traced back to the Greek word "khēmeia", meaning alchemy.
The word "sample" has a different etymology, coming from the Old English word "sǣmplian", meaning "to take or receive as a sample". It has roots in the Old French word "essample" and Latin word "exemplum", which both meant "example" or "pattern".
When "chemical" is combined with "sample", it simply refers to a representative or small part taken from a substance or mixture for analysis or testing in the context of chemistry or related sciences.
