Osmora Scientific Glossary
Mass-to-charge ratio (m/z)
The ratio of an ion's mass to its charge, written m/z; it is the quantity a mass spectrometer separates and measures. For a singly charged ion, m/z corresponds to the ion's mass.
In plain language
The value a mass spectrometer actually measures — an ion's mass divided by its charge.
Why it matters in research
Because m/z relates to molecular mass, it is the basis on which mass spectrometry supports identity.
Where you'll encounter it
Mass spectra and MS identity discussions.
Related terms
Related Academy lessons
Source
- Mass Spectrometry. Chemistry LibreTexts (Analytical Chemistry). Retrieved 2026.