Analytical information from mass spectrometry, past and future.

Two basic reasons are proposed for the tremendous success and future promise of mass spectrometry: (1) the unusually high volume of data obtainable from unusually small samples and (2) the success in converting these data into structural and quantitative information. The ion abundance dimension of mass spectrometric data is remarkable in its pico-to-ttogram sensitivity and >10(6) dynamic range, and the mass scale dimension is uniquely high in the number of resolution increments for larger molecule ionization and high resolution. Additional dimensions of data arise from chromatographic coupling to mass spectrometry and tandem mass spectrometry, as well as from alternative ionization and ion reaction methods. Converting these data into chemical information is equally important. Past progress in these areas has been cyclical; for the immediate future a greater research emphasis is urged to convert data to information through better understanding of the relevant chemistry and better utilization of modern computer methods.