What temperature should samples be stored at for analysis?

Samples intended for analysis should be stored on ice or refrigerated at no greater than 4°C to ensure their stability and prevent degradation. Storing samples at this temperature range helps to preserve the integrity of the chemical and physical properties, thereby ensuring reliable analysis results. This is particularly important for certain compounds that may be sensitive to temperature changes, as higher temperatures can lead to degradation, loss of the sample, or unwanted reactions that might compromise the data.

Storing samples at room temperature might not provide the necessary preservation, especially for volatile or reactive substances. Keeping samples frozen at -20°C is sometimes appropriate for long-term storage but could affect components that must remain in a liquid state for accurate testing. Similarly, ambient outdoor temperatures can fluctuate and are often outside the ideal storage range for sensitive samples, potentially leading to inconsistency in results. Therefore, refrigerated conditions at 4°C strike a balance between preventing degradation while allowing for immediate accessibility for analysis.