Final answer:
The 'chopper' in infrared analyzers is used to filter out unwanted signals to enhance measurement accuracy and reduce false readings.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of the "chopper" device in conventional infrared analyzers is to filter out unwanted signals. The chopper intermittently interrupts the infrared signal, allowing the detector to differentiate between the signal of interest and any possible background noise or radiation.
This enhances the analyzer's ability to accurately measure the signal associated with the desired element or compound, and reduces the potential for false readings caused by external sources of infrared radiation.