Mass-to-charge ratio calculation

The mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) compares the mass of an ion to its electric charge. In mass spectrometry, ions are generated from molecules, and measuring this ratio helps identify the molecule’s structure. To calculate it, you divide the ion's mass (how much it weighs) by its charge (the number of electrical charges it carries). For example, a singly charged ion (charge of +1) with a mass of 100 atomic units has an m/z of 100. This ratio allows scientists to distinguish ions based on their size and charge, aiding in identifying and analyzing different molecules.