Calibration is a process that demonstrates a particular instrument or device produces results within specified limits, as compared to those produced by a definite standard over an appropriate range of measurements.
- Calibration activities must be performed with qualified instruments by an accredited laboratory.
- Purpose:
- To ensure the instrument provides accurate and reliable results.
Key Features:
- Establishes a relationship between the instrument’s response and the known values of a standard.
- Performed periodically to maintain accuracy over time.
- Reduce systematic errors.
Process:
- Use reference standards with known concentrations or values.
- Measure the response of the instrument.
- Plot the instrument’s response against the known values (e.g., a calibration curve).
- Adjust the instrument if needed.
Examples:
- Calibrating a pH meter with buffer solutions.
- Generating a calibration curve in UV-Vis spectroscopy for concentration determination.
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