Qualitative Analysis
Analysis carried out to establish which species are present in a sample.
Unit
Dimensionless
In depth
Classical qualitative analysis separates cations into groups by selective precipitation with a fixed sequence of reagents, then confirms each with a specific test. Instrumental identification by spectroscopy or mass spectrometry has largely replaced it, but the underlying chemistry is still taught for its rigour.
Examples in the real world
A flame test showing lilac for potassium; adding silver nitrate and observing a white precipitate for chloride.