What is the primary method by which MALDI methods separate ions?

MALDI (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization) methods primarily separate ions based on their mass-to-charge ratio (m/z). Ions generated by MALDI are propelled into the mass spectrometer and undergo analysis using their mass and charge characteristics.

In a mass spectrometer, the separation process relies on how different ions respond to the electric and magnetic fields present within the instrument, which interact based on both their mass and charge. By taking into account both parameters, the mass spectrometer can effectively differentiate between various ions in a sample, allowing for accurate identification and quantification.

This dual consideration of mass and charge is vital, as it allows for a more comprehensive analysis of complex mixtures, enabling the detection of a wide range of biomolecules such as proteins, peptides, and oligonucleotides. By focusing solely on either mass or charge would limit the resolution and accuracy of the separation process, making the combination of both factors crucial for successful ion analysis in MALDI methods.