In the field of chemistry and medical science, the term “analyte” is used frequently. It refers to a substance or chemical component that is being analyzed or measured in a sample. Analytes can be found in various types of samples, such as blood, urine, saliva, or even environmental samples. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of analyte in more detail.
Definitions
Analyte is defined as a substance or chemical component that is being analyzed or measured in a sample. It is the target of an analytical measurement, and the results of the analysis are often reported in terms of the analyte concentration.
Origin
The term “analyte” comes from the Greek word “analysis,” which means to break down or separate into parts. The word “analyte” was first used in the mid-20th century to describe the substance being analyzed in a sample.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, analyte is defined as “a substance subjected to analysis.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines analyte as “a substance or constituent undergoing analysis.”
Associations
Analytes are often associated with laboratory testing and medical diagnosis. They can be used to measure the presence or concentration of a particular substance in a sample, such as glucose in blood or drugs in urine. Analytes can also be used to monitor environmental pollutants or contaminants.
Synonyms
Synonyms for analyte include substance, component, constituent, and element.
Antonyms
Antonyms for analyte include whole, aggregate, and mixture.
The same root words
The root word “analysis” is related to analyte and is used in many other scientific terms, such as “spectroscopic analysis” or “chemical analysis.”
Example Sentences
- The analyte concentration in the blood sample was found to be within normal limits.
- The laboratory technician analyzed the urine sample for the presence of drugs.
- Environmental scientists tested the water sample for analytes such as pesticides and heavy metals.