Biologist wonders what math an analytical chemist does on a daily basis

[JGretchen]

Hi!

I am a biologist pursuing advanced degrees in chemistry/biochemistry. This is not by accident and I am very invested in making this pivot so that I can study biological systems through a chemical lens. I recently got the opportunity to ask a chemist for advice and she recommended that I beef up my comfort/familiarity with math. Our meeting was brief and I wasn't able to ask her to elaborate.

I have always had a moderate phobia of advanced math. Excepting statistics, I haven't taken a math course since my freshman year of undergrad, which was Integral Calculus. I miraculously managed a B, but I would be lying if I said I remembered anything useful or have consciously applied anything I learned there since then. But it's high time I face my fear and befriend math. I have under a year until I start my PhD, so a comprehensive review of all math relevant to chemistry is beyond my capability, especially as I am finishing up my Master's.

So, I am seeking informed opinions on where I should focus my efforts. Specifically, I am aiming to do work in metabolomics, so analytical chemistry is about to become my best friend. What kind of math does an analytical chemist do on a daily basis? What topics/equations are essential to work in that field or fundamental to understanding how the instruments work/ how the analytes respond to the instruments?

I am not looking to become a mathematician; I just want to know what I need to know so that I can be good at what I do. 

Best & thanks!

[scooke]

I used calculus more in engineering, and it may apply to some biological systems analysis.  The MOST important mathematics for doing good research analysis is statistics!  Also, it is extremely important to understand the limitations of statistics and the many ways in which it is misused and abused in public discourse.  Many undergraduate science curricula spend very little time on statistics. It is often an optional course for a degree program. 

However, whether taking some more time in school, or going back to take individual courses or seminars later in ones career, statistics is really the one specialty application of mathematics that gets the most use after the fundamental functions.

Best regards,

Steven

[JGretchen]

Thank you! Great to hear, since I am already comfortable with statistics and have done coursework on stats for my degree. 

[DanielaLeia]

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@JGretchen wrote:

Hi!

I am a biologist pursuing advanced degrees in chemistry/biochemistry. This is not by accident and I am very invested in making this pivot so that I can study biological systems through a chemical lens. I recently got the opportunity to ask a chemist for advice and she recommended that I beef up my comfort/familiarity with math. Our meeting was brief and I wasn't able to ask her to elaborate.

I have always had a moderate Phobias list of advanced math. Excepting statistics, I haven't taken a math course since my freshman year of undergrad, which was Integral Calculus. I miraculously managed a B, but I would be lying if I said I remembered anything useful or have consciously applied anything I learned there since then. But it's high time I face my fear and befriend math. I have under a year until I start my PhD, so a comprehensive review of all math relevant to chemistry is beyond my capability, especially as I am finishing up my Master's.

So, I am seeking informed opinions on where I should focus my efforts. Specifically, I am aiming to do work in metabolomics, so analytical chemistry is about to become my best friend. What kind of math does an analytical chemist do on a daily basis? What topics/equations are essential to work in that field or fundamental to understanding how the instruments work/ how the analytes respond to the instruments?

I am not looking to become a mathematician; I just want to know what I need to know so that I can be good at what I do. 

Best & thanks!

---

That being said if you're smart enough to do well in chemistry then you should just be a software engineer or data scientist. The pay is better and you don't have to deal with chemical exposure. Synthetic chemists have it especially bad for exposure but you'll be hard pressed to find a lab space without carcinogens (yes even protein labs have this issue) and even if you don't work with it then things will have been liberally smeared across all working surfaces and you'll periodically breath volatiles whether you realize it or not. These days you often are shuttling in and out of lab with a laptop so your family gets to share in whatever is lingering in trace amounts on lab surfaces or on your hands when you were handling it in lab. Gloves and work stations help here but are honestly not used as often as they should be by most people even when available. No surface is safe in a lab when you have coworkers sharing it.

[smith333]

An analytical chemist uses math extensively for data analysis, including statistical analysis, calibration of instruments, and interpreting experimental results. They may also use math for calculations involving concentrations, reaction rates, and chemical properties. Additionally, analytical chemists often employ mathematical models to predict outcomes and optimize experimental conditions. Math plays a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of their analytical methods and findings. https://lavaloungehouston.com/ catering services, offering delectable cuisine delivered right to you.

[SabrinaC]

In my experience, calculus has been primarily utilized in engineering, with potential applications in analyzing certain biological systems. However, when it comes to conducting thorough research analysis, statistics reigns as the most crucial mathematical tool. It's essential to grasp both the power and the limitations of statistics, considering its frequent misuse in public discourse. Unfortunately, undergraduate science programs often allocate insufficient time to statistics education, sometimes even offering it as an optional course. Whether through extending one's academic tenure or pursuing additional courses and seminars later in one's career, a solid understanding of statistics remains paramount, as it stands as the most utilized specialized application of mathematics beyond fundamental functions. More Information

[SabrinaC]

Thank you! That's wonderful news, especially considering my existing proficiency in statistics and previous coursework in the subject for my degree. https://www-mycenturahealth.us/login/

[Marcus-kelly]

In my experience, calculus has found primary applications in engineering and potential uses in analyzing specific biological systems. However, when conducting comprehensive research analysis, statistics emerges as the most vital mathematical tool. Understanding both the capabilities and limitations of statistics is crucial, given its frequent misapplication in public discussions. Regrettably, undergraduate science programs often allocate inadequate time to statistics education, occasionally presenting it as an optional course. Whether by extending academic pursuits or participating in additional courses and seminars later in one's career, a robust comprehension of statistics remains essential, representing the most widely employed specialized application of mathematics beyond fundamental functions. Visit now

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[Marcus-kelly]

Hi there @JGretchen 

It's fantastic that you're diving into chemistry and biochemistry with such enthusiasm! Don't worry if math has been a bit daunting in the past; many people find it challenging, but it's definitely something you can conquer with the right approach.

As you venture into the realm of analytical chemistry, here's a breakdown of the key math areas you'll likely encounter on a daily basis:

1. Algebra: This is the backbone of many mathematical concepts you'll come across. Understanding how to manipulate equations, solve for variables, and rearrange formulas will be incredibly useful.

2. Calculus: While you may not need to dive deep into calculus, having a grasp of basic concepts like rates of change and integrals can be helpful, especially in understanding some of the underlying principles of analytical techniques.

3. Statistics: You mentioned you're already comfortable with statistics, which is fantastic because it's a crucial tool in YT3converter. Understanding concepts like probability distributions, hypothesis testing, and regression analysis will be invaluable in interpreting experimental data.

4. Linear Algebra: This field deals with vectors, matrices, and systems of linear equations. It's particularly important in understanding spectroscopic techniques and data analysis methods like principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares regression (PLS).

5. Differential Equations: While not as common in everyday analytical chemistry work, some advanced techniques and models may involve differential equations, particularly in kinetic studies or reaction mechanisms.

6. Numerical Methods: This involves using computational techniques to solve mathematical problems, which is essential in areas like chromatography simulation, spectral analysis, and data fitting.

To focus your efforts, I'd recommend brushing up on algebra and statistics first, as these will form the foundation for much of your work in analytical chemistry. From there, you can gradually delve into the other areas as needed, depending on the specific techniques and methods you encounter in your research.

Remember, you don't need to become a math expert overnight. Take it one step at a time, practice regularly, and don't hesitate to seek out resources or ask for help when needed. With dedication and persistence, you'll build the mathematical skills you need to excel in your field. Good luck on your journey!