What is mass spectrometry primarily used for?

Mass spectrometry is primarily used to measure the mass-to-charge ratio of ions, which is crucial for identifying and quantifying compounds in a sample. In this technique, molecules are ionized, and the resulting ions are accelerated in an electric field. Their subsequent separation is based on their mass-to-charge ratios, allowing researchers to determine the composition and structure of the analyzed substances. This specific measurement capability makes mass spectrometry highly effective in various applications, including proteomics, metabolomics, and environmental analysis, where precise molecular information is vital. The mass spectrum generated provides valuable insights into the molecular weights of compounds, facilitating their identification and relative abundance assessment.