detection limits

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "detection limits" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in scientific and technical contexts to refer to the lowest concentration of a substance that can be reliably detected by a method or instrument. Example: "The detection limits of the new analytical method were significantly lower than those of the previous technique."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

dNot detected, detection limits: F = 0.25 ppm, HCO3 = 1 ppm.

Geochemical Transactions

Warfarin was not detected above the detection limits.

Environmental Research

minimum detection limits.

Heritage Science

Detection limits reported in [12].

Geochemical Transactions

Detection limits were 0.02 nM.

Geochemical Transactions

and data quality (e.g., detection limits and percent of data above detection limits).

Atmospheric Environment

Detection limits and analytical reproducibility are reported in the data.

Geochemical Transactions

This method was used to account for observational detection limits.

Environmental Sciences Europe

The detection limits of these analyses are all 0.01 wt.%.

Nanoscale Research Letters

These methods generally displayed relatively high detection limits.

International Nano Letters

Method detection limits are reported in Ayers et al. [12].

Geochemical Transactions

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the capabilities of an analytical method, clearly state the "detection limits" to provide context for the sensitivity of the measurements. For example, if a substance isn't detected, mentioning that its concentration was below the "detection limits" helps clarify whether it was truly absent or just undetectable by the method used.

Common error

Avoid assuming that any measurement above the "detection limits" is perfectly accurate. While the "detection limits" indicate the lowest detectable concentration, the accuracy of the measurement is still subject to other factors, such as calibration errors or matrix effects. Always consider the overall uncertainty in your measurements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "detection limits" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. It refers to the lowest quantity of a substance or signal that can be reliably distinguished from a blank sample. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's a standard term in scientific and technical writing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

88%

News & Media

7%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "detection limits" is a grammatically correct and very commonly used noun phrase, primarily in scientific and technical contexts. It refers to the lowest quantity of a substance that can be reliably detected by a method. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in these areas, highlighting its importance in quantifying the sensitivity of analytical methods. When writing, it's crucial to understand that "detection limits" define the sensitivity of an analytical method, and reporting measurements below these limits requires careful consideration. Common errors include confusing "detection limits" with measurement accuracy. Related phrases include "limit of detection" and "detection threshold". The phrase is mainly found in scientific publications, but also in news and media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limit of detection

This is a more formal and technical term directly referring to the lowest detectable quantity.

detection threshold

Focuses on the point at which detection becomes possible, rather than the specific limit.

minimum detectable concentration

Specifies that the limit is related to the concentration of a substance.

sensitivity threshold

Emphasizes the sensitivity of the method or instrument in relation to the ability to detect.

lower limit of detection

Explicitly indicates the lower boundary of what can be detected.

assay sensitivity

Highlights the sensitivity aspect related to measurement and analysis.

minimum detection level

Similar to 'minimum detectable concentration', emphasizing the level of detection.

measurable limit

Focuses on the boundary where something can be quantified or measured.

identifiable quantity

Highlights the aspect of being able to identify the presence of something.

threshold of perceptibility

Emphasizes the point at which something becomes noticeable or perceptible.

FAQs

How are "detection limits" determined?

Detection limits are typically determined by analyzing a series of blank samples and calculating the concentration that corresponds to a signal significantly different from the background noise. Common methods include using three times the standard deviation of the blank or a signal-to-noise ratio of 3:1.

What does it mean if a substance is reported as 'not detected'?

When a substance is reported as 'not detected', it means that its concentration in the sample was below the "detection limit" of the analytical method used. This does not necessarily mean the substance is completely absent, but rather that it could not be reliably measured with the method at hand.

Why are "detection limits" important in scientific research?

Detection limits are crucial because they define the sensitivity of an analytical method. They help researchers understand the lowest concentrations of substances that can be reliably detected, which is essential for interpreting results and making accurate conclusions. They also aid in comparing the performance of different analytical methods.

What factors affect "detection limits"?

Several factors can influence detection limits, including the sensitivity of the instrument, the presence of interfering substances, the sample preparation method, and the background noise. Optimizing these factors can improve the "detection limits" and the overall sensitivity of the analytical method.