Multielement applications of ICPS in applied geochemistry

Abstract

Analysis in applied geochemistry has very distinctive characteristics which tend to set it apart from other analytical applications in geology (Webb and Thompson, 1977). This difference stems from the recognition that few users of trace element data in this field need analytical results which are better than ± 5% relative precision, i.e., a coefficient of variation of 5%. This is a result of the fact that the sampling strategy, the analysis, and the interpretation of data are each component parts of an integrated activity which has been optimized as a whole. Sampling error, sampling density, analytical error, and cost factors are all taken into account in a system which maximizes cost-effectiveness. As accuracy and precision cost money, analysts should make no attempt to improve them beyond their useful levels. This is the philosophy which is consciously adopted in applied geochemical analysis. Thus it is a highly developed field, carefully balanced for cost effectiveness, which meets a specific need in a competitive market.