trace element [`trās ´el·ǝ·mǝnt] ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY An element in a sample that has an average concentration of less than 100 parts per million atoms or less than 100 micrograms per gram. BIOCHEMISTRY A chemical element that is needed in minute quantities for the proper growth, development, and physiology of the organism. Also known as micronutrient. GEOCHEMISTRY An element found in small quantities (usually less than 1.0%) in a mineral. Also known as accessory element; guest element. |