Term: sensitivity, \(A\)
https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.S05606

Definition:
The slope of the calibration curve. If the curve is in fact a 'curve', rather than a straight line, then of course sensitivity will be a function of analyte concentration or amount. If sensitivity is to be a unique performance characteristic, it must depend only on the chemical measurement process, not upon scale factors.

Related Terms:
1) calibration curve (<em>in analysis</em>) (http://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.C00778).
2) chemical measurement process (<em>in analysis</em>) (http://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.C01030).

Source: PAC, 1990, 62, 2167. 'Glossary of atmospheric chemistry terms (Recommendations 1990)' on page 2174 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199062112167)

Citation: 'sensitivity, \(A\)' in IUPAC Compendium of Chemical Terminology, 5th ed. International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry; 2025. Online version 5.0.0, 2025. https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.S05606

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