Mass-to-charge ratio

Mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) is a way to compare the mass of an ion to its electrical charge. It helps scientists identify and analyze particles, like molecules or atoms, in techniques such as mass spectrometry. Think of it like measuring how heavy an object is compared to how many charges or "pushes" it has; a higher m/z means a heavier or less charged particle, while a lower m/z indicates a lighter or more charged one. This ratio is crucial for distinguishing different ions during detection, allowing precise analysis of complex mixtures.