Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance

Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance (FT-ICR) is a technique used to analyze the composition of molecules, especially in chemistry and mass spectrometry. Ions (charged particles) are trapped in a strong magnetic field, causing them to move in circular paths at specific frequencies depending on their mass and charge. When these ions are excited by a radio wave, they produce signals that are recorded. Applying a mathematical Fourier transform converts these signals from time to frequency domain, revealing the distinct frequencies, and thus identifying the types and quantities of molecules present with high accuracy and resolution.