Uncertainty in Measurements - When Analyses Are Not Approximations of What Should Be

Uncertainty in Measurements - When Analyses Are Not Approximations of What Should BeUncertainty in measurements can have a significant impact on the practice of chemical analysis. In this situation, the chemist has a choice: move to another job or choose to seek a change in employer.Most professionals, including chemists, who have expertise in many different areas, including quantum chemistry, may find it difficult to continue as a chemist if they are often measuring uncertain quantities of chemicals. Other chemists may want to stay in their current industry, but they might need to adjust their day-to-day work because of uncertainty in measurements in the laboratory.Measurement in many different fields may result in uncertainties that cannot be easily resolved by looking at the theoretical results produced by the instrument. The equation used to describe the quantity being measured must be accurate. If it is not, the measurements are meaningless. In this instance, the chemist needs t o investigate other methods of measurement that are less affected by the uncertainty in measurements.Uncertainty in measurements could make it difficult for the chemist to find consistency in the laboratory measurements. In some cases, there is not a great deal of difference between theoretical results and the values found in laboratory experiments. In these situations, the chemist must continue the analyses of measurements made in order to gain confidence in the final results.The uncertainty in measurements can also impact the marketability of an analysis. A well-meaning worker can create controversy if he or she claims that a particular study was created using methods that are not adequately represented in the published results.A strong correlation between the value of measurements and the distribution of certain chemicals can result in confusion and tension between the physical and chemical analysis. A reaction can be more easily defined when the volume and extent of analysis are directly related to the chemical. For example, in a solution of formaldehyde in water, the molecular weights of the solute and its compounds are based on the volume of the solution. However, in a concentration of hydrofluoric acid in water, the molecular weights depend on the concentration of the acid.To help resolve uncertainties in measurements, professionals can communicate with colleagues who have knowledge of a given area. Often, these professionals are able to help reduce uncertainty in measurements by providing specific analysis techniques and referencing references.