Mass spectrometry is an analytical technique used to measure the mass-to-charge ratio of ions. It is a powerful qualitative and quantitative analytical technique used to identify and quantify a wide range of clinically relevant molecules. The results are presented as a mass spectrum, which is a plot of intensity as a function of the mass-to-charge ratio. Mass spectrometry is used in many different fields and is applied to pure samples as well as complex mixtures.

The process of mass spectrometry involves three main components: the ionization source, the mass analyzer, and the ion detection system. The ionization source converts molecules into ions, which are then sorted and separated according to their mass-to-charge ratio by the mass analyzer. The separated ions are then measured and displayed on the mass spectrum chart by the ion detection system.

Mass spectrometry can be used to identify unknown compounds, determine the isotopic composition of elements in a molecule, and determine the structure of a molecule. It can also measure molar mass, molecular structure, and sample purity. Each of these questions requires a different experimental procedure, so adequate definition of the experimental goal is a prerequisite for collecting the proper data and successfully interpreting it.

In summary, mass spectrometry is a powerful analytical technique used to measure the mass-to-charge ratio of ions and is applied to pure samples as well as complex mixtures. It can be used to identify unknown compounds, determine the isotopic composition of elements in a molecule, and determine the structure of a molecule.