Peptides MEX / Glossary
Mass spectrometry: m/z, identity and limitations
Mass spectrometry provides molecular information that needs a method and comparison criteria.
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What the instrument measures
Mass spectrometry analyzes ions by mass-to-charge ratio, expressed as m/z. A spectrum displays ion signals; it does not directly weigh everything in a container. Ionization, the analyzer and data processing affect what is observed.
Sources: [1]
What a matching signal can establish
Comparing observed and expected signals can support identification. An isolated mass match does not resolve every possible structural difference. Look for charge, mass tolerance and, where relevant, fragmentation data alongside the identity-assignment criteria.
Sources: [1]
Questions about this reference
Does a mass spectrum replace every purity test?
No. Identification, composition and quantification require defined analytical questions and procedures.
Sources and original reading
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