Infrared detection method

The infrared detection method for dissolved organic carbon (DOC) measures how much carbon is in a water sample. First, the sample is filtered to remove solids. Then, it's treated to turn all organic carbon into carbon dioxide (CO₂). This gas is sent into a special detector that uses infrared light. CO₂ absorbs this light, and the machine measures how much is absorbed. The more CO₂, the more organic carbon was in the water. This method is fast and accurate, helping scientists understand how much natural or pollution-related carbon is in rivers, lakes, or ocean.