What is the purpose of sampling?

• A. Obtain informative portion of the sampling site media being investigated
• B. Determine sample cost
• C. Accelerate lab results
• D. Eliminate need for analysis

Answer: (A)

The purpose of sampling is to obtain an informative portion of the sampling site media being investigated. Since environmental media like soil, water, and air can vary across a site, a well-designed sample represents the larger area and captures the conditions you need to know for assessment and decision-making. The data from these samples tell you about contaminant presence, concentrations, and distribution, which informs risk evaluations, regulatory compliance, and remediation planning. Costs, speed of results, or skipping analysis aren’t the driving aim of sampling; you still need valid analysis to understand the site.