Internal standard technique

The internal standard technique is a method used in laboratory analysis to improve accuracy. It involves adding a known amount of a substance, called an internal standard, to all samples, standards, and controls. This internal standard behaves similarly to the target analyte (the substance being measured). By comparing the response of the analyte to that of the internal standard, variations from sample preparation, instrument fluctuations, or measurement conditions are accounted for, leading to more reliable and consistent results. This technique is commonly used in chemical and biological analyses to ensure precise quantification.