The mass-to-charge ratio, often abbreviated as m/z, is a critical parameter in mass spectrometry that describes the ratio of the mass of an ion to its charge. This ratio is essential for distinguishing between ions with different masses and charges during analysis, allowing scientists to identify and quantify molecules based on their unique m/z values. Understanding this concept is fundamental for interpreting mass spectra, optimizing ionization techniques, and effectively utilizing mass analyzers.
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