The spelling of the word "microdetermination" may seem daunting at first, but a closer look reveals the logic behind it. The prefix "micro-" indicates something small, while "determination" refers to measurement or analysis. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˌmaɪkrəʊdɪˌtɜːmɪˈneɪʃən/. The emphasis falls on the third syllable, with a short "i" sound in both "micro" and "determination." The word's length can also be explained through its prefixes and suffix. Overall, "microdetermination" refers to the analysis of small quantities of a substance.
Microdetermination refers to the process of analyzing or measuring minute quantities or concentrations of substances or components within a sample or system. It involves the determination of small or micro amounts, typically in the range of micrograms or lower, often requiring highly sensitive analytical techniques and equipment.
Microdetermination is commonly employed in scientific research, particularly in fields such as chemistry, biochemistry, and environmental science, where the accurate measurement of trace amounts is crucial. It allows for the quantification or identification of specific compounds, elements, or properties of interest, even when present in minute quantities.
This analytical approach involves careful sample preparation and using specialized devices or methods that provide high sensitivity and precision. Techniques commonly used for microdetermination include spectroscopy, chromatography, mass spectrometry, and electrochemical analysis.
Microdetermination offers several advantages, including its ability to detect and quantify substances at very low concentrations, which would be otherwise difficult or impossible to measure. It is also highly precise and accurate, enabling scientists to study and understand the behavior of substances with high precision.
The field of microdetermination has contributed significantly to various scientific disciplines, allowing researchers to gain insights into trace elements, pollutants, drug formulations, and metabolic processes. It has proven particularly valuable in environmental monitoring, pharmaceutical analysis, forensic investigations, and quality control in industries such as food and beverages, petrochemicals, and pharmaceuticals.
See micro- (2).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "microdetermination" combines the prefix "micro-" and the noun "determination".
The prefix "micro-" is derived from the Greek word "mikros", meaning small. It is commonly used as a prefix to indicate something small, miniature, or on a microscopic scale.
The word "determination" comes from the Latin word "determinare", which means to limit or to set boundaries. It is derived from the prefix "de-", meaning off or away, and "terminus", meaning boundary or limit. Over time, the term evolved to encompass the idea of making a decision or reaching a conclusion.
Combining these two components, "microdetermination" suggests a process or act of determining or making decisions on a small or microscopic scale.