Selectivity in analytical chemistry (IUPAC Recommendations 2001)

TLDR: In this paper, the correct use of the term "selectivity" and its clear distinction from the terms "specificity" are discussed and a definition of selectivity is given.

Abstract: : The correct use of the term “selectivity” and its clear distinction from theterm “specificity” are discussed. A definition of selectivity is given, and it is rec-ommended that the use of this term be promoted and that the use of the term“specificity” be discouraged. 1. INTRODUCTION A very important quality criterion of an analytical method is its capability to deliver signals that are freefrom interferences and give “true results”. The ability to discriminate between the analyte and interfer-ing components has, for many years, been expressed as the “selectivity” of a method and measurementsystem. One clear definition is the following: “ Selectivity of a method refers to the extent to which itcan determine particular analyte(s) in a complex mixture without interference from other componentsin the mixture” [1]. However, the same meaning has often been given to the term “specificity” [2].Following earlier concern about the use of these terms [3] IUPAC clarified this overlap by expressingthe view that “