What process involves determining an instrument's response to a series of known values?

The process of determining an instrument's response to a series of known values is known as calibration. Calibration is a critical practice in ensuring the accuracy and precision of measuring instruments. During calibration, an instrument is compared against a standard or a series of known reference values to determine its accuracy. This process often involves making adjustments so that the readings from the instrument align closely with these established standards.

By performing calibration, one can identify any systematic errors and correct them, ensuring that measurements taken in the future are reliable and valid. This procedure is essential in fields that require high precision, such as environmental monitoring, where accurate radon measurements are crucial for safety and health assessments.

While verification could refer to confirming that an instrument is functioning correctly within acceptable limits, it does not inherently involve adjusting the instrument based on known standards. Assessment typically refers to evaluating performance without the direct intention of correcting or adjusting the instrument. Duplication suggests repeating a measurement or process, rather than measuring the instrument's response to fixed values.