What is the primary use of gas chromatographs in environmental compliance?

Gas chromatographs play a crucial role in environmental compliance by serving multiple functions related to the analysis of organic compounds. Firstly, they detect the presence of organic compounds in various samples, enabling the identification of pollutants or contaminants that may be present in air, water, soil, or other environmental media. This detection is essential for compliance with environmental regulations that aim to protect public health and the ecosystem.

In addition to detection, gas chromatographs are also employed to quantify the concentration of organic compounds. This quantification is critical for assessing the extent of contamination and for determining whether levels of certain compounds adhere to regulatory limits. Accurate quantification helps in risk assessment and in making informed decisions regarding environmental remediation or regulatory compliance.

Moreover, gas chromatographs are designed to separate organic compounds within a mixture based on their chemical properties. This separation allows for a clear analysis of complex samples, where multiple substances may be present simultaneously. By effectively separating compounds, gas chromatographs enable a more precise identification and quantification of each substance.

Therefore, the primary use of gas chromatographs encompasses detecting, quantifying, and separating organic compounds, making 'all of the above' the most comprehensive and accurate choice regarding their role in environmental compliance.