Applications of quartering method in soils and foods

Abstract

Sampling is a technique and a science. If the appropriate technique is followed it reduces the bulk mass and helps to respect the batch composition as best as possible. Non-representative sampling results in incorrect analysis. Soils and foods are materials constantly assessed. Subsampling methods, as conning and quartering are applied in solid samples. Then they could be functional in soils, and granular foods, like grains, cereals or nuts. The method is very dependent on the skill of the operator then great care must be taken when obtaining a sample by coning and quartering. It has some advantages, like the easiness, cleanness and inexpensiveness. But it is usually inaccurate and can provide non-representative samples.