Mass-to-Charge Ratio(m/z)

Definition

The determining factor by which ions are separated from each other in mass spectrometry.

Explanation

The (M) symbolizes the molecular or atomic number and (Z) represents the charge number of the ion. In a mass analysis, an electron is taken from molecules to create single charged ions. If two electrons are removed, double-charged ions are produced. The number of electrons removed is the charge number (for positive ions). m/z together represent mass divided by charge number and the horizontal axis in a mass spectrum is expressed in units of m/z.