Numerical analysis of exponential decay data and its applications in laser fluorometry
Abstract
The nature of exponential decay data is such that it requires numerical analysis before any information can be obtained. At present, there are a wide variety of methods which can/have been used for analysis of this type of data. These methods often return answers which users accept as "truth" without a full understanding of how the algorithms work and the errors and problems associated with the particular calculation. This work focused on some of the numerical methods most often used and their limitations as well as how they can be applied to exponential decay data. The first stage of this work dealt with the problems associated with the time correlated single photon counting apparatus and strategies which could be used to eliminate instrumental interferences. The second stage dealt with the analysis of numerical methods. Answering questions such as what type of system should a particular method be used and how these different methods compared to one another. The final stage of this work involved the applications of the various methods to a biological system. Differences in the results from the applied methods are discussed. The results herein show the distinct limitations of a variety of methods and the associated problems with each. Shown also is how careful thought may alleviate misinterpretation of a given result.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Lytle, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Analytical chemistry
Off-Campus Purdue Users:
To access this dissertation, please log in to our
proxy server.