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Ion Mobility Spectrometry

Meaning

Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS) is an advanced analytical chemistry technique used to separate and identify ionized molecules in the gas phase based on their difference in mobility through a carrier gas under an applied electric field. This method separates ions according to their unique size, shape, and charge, providing an additional dimension of separation that is orthogonal to traditional mass spectrometry. IMS offers extremely rapid analysis and is particularly valuable in clinical metabolomics for resolving isobaric compounds, which are molecules that share the same mass but possess different structural configurations. The technology provides enhanced molecular specificity in complex biological matrices, improving diagnostic accuracy.