Definitions given in Section 4 are intended for use in all standards on analytical chemistry for metals, ores, and related materials. The definitions should be used uniformly and consistently. The purpose of this terminology is to promote clear understanding and interpretation of the standards in which definitions are used.

1.1 This is a compilation of terms commonly used in analytical chemistry for metals, ores, and related materials. Terms that are generally understood or defined adequately in other readily available sources are either not included or their sources are identified.

1.2 A definition is a single sentence with additional information included in a discussion.

1.3 Definitions identical to those published by another standards organization or ASTM committee are identified with the name of the organization or the identifying document and ASTM committee.

1.4 Definitions specific to a particular field (such as emission spectrometry) are identified with an italicized introductory phrase.