Enter the height and the width at half-height into the Calculator. The calculator will evaluate the Peak Area. 

Peak Area Formula

PA = h * w1/2

Variables:

  • PA is the Peak Area ()
  • h is the height
  • w1/2 is the width at half-height

To calculate the Peak Area, multiply the height by the width at half-height.

How to Calculate Peak Area?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Peak Area.


  1. First, determine the height. 
  2. Next, determine the width at half-height. 
  3. Next, gather the formula from above = PA = h * w1/2.
  4. Finally, calculate the Peak Area.
  5. After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem : 

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

height = 50

width at half-height = 10

FAQs

What is Peak Area in scientific terms?

In scientific terms, Peak Area refers to the area under a curve on a graph that represents a peak, often used in chromatography and signal processing to quantify the amount of substance present or the intensity of a signal.

How do you determine the height and width at half-height for a peak?

The height of a peak is determined by measuring the maximum vertical distance from the baseline to the top of the peak. The width at half-height is measured as the width of the peak at a vertical distance that is half of the peak’s height.

Why is calculating Peak Area important?

Calculating Peak Area is important in various fields such as analytical chemistry, pharmacology, and environmental science, as it helps in quantifying the concentration of substances, analyzing the purity of compounds, and monitoring environmental pollutants.

Can Peak Area calculation be used for all types of peaks?

While the Peak Area calculation is a versatile tool, its accuracy and applicability can vary depending on the type of peak and the method used for measurement. It is most effective for well-defined, symmetrical peaks but may require adjustments or alternative methods for irregular or overlapping peaks.