Analytical chemistry is a branch of chemistry focused on the qualitative and quantitative analysis of substances. It involves techniques and methods to identify the chemical composition of materials, helping scientists understand what a substance is made of and how much of each component is present. This field employs various tools and techniques, such as chromatography, spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry, to analyze samples. Analytical chemists work in diverse areas, including pharmaceuticals, environmental science, and food safety, ensuring that products meet safety standards and regulations.