Detection limit
| DRAFT DEFINITION |
| Detection limit |
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The detection limit of an instrument should be differentiated from sensitivity. The detection limit reflects the smallest flow of sample or the lowest partial pressure that gives a signal that can be distinguished from the background noise. One must specify the experimental conditions used and give the value of signal-to-noise ratio corresponding to the detection limit. |
| Considered between 2004 and 2006 but not included in the 2006 PAC submission |
| This is an unofficial draft definition presented for information and comment. |
Orange Book
| ORANGE BOOK DEFINITION
IUPAC. Analytical Division. Compendium of Analytical Nomenclature (the Orange Book). Definitive Rules, 1979 (see also Orange Book 2023) |
| Detection limit |
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The detection limit reflects the smallest amount of sample or the lowest partial pressure that gives a signal that can be distinguished from the background noise. It is recommended that a signal-to-noise ratio of 2:1 be used to define the detection limit. See also Orange Book Chapter 18.4.3.7 and 2.4. |
| IUPAC 1997 Orange Book Chapter 12 |
| Index of Orange Book Terms |
