A picogram represents 10⁻¹² grams or one millionth of a microgram. It is the standard scale for measuring cellular DNA content, trace environmental contaminants, and ultra-low concentration biomarkers in blood tests. At this scale, technicians must use specialized mass spectrometry because standard laboratory balances cannot detect such minute quantities.
Heard on the job
The assay detected residual pesticides at levels around 15 picograms per millilitre.
Insider tip
When reading environmental or medical lab reports, remember that one picogram per millilitre of water is equivalent to one part per trillion.
Also heard as
- pg