Over the last three decades, mass spectrometry has become one of the central analytical tools for biological research. Its impact on biology is now comparable to that of the more traditional separation techniques including electrophoresis and liquid-based chromatography, and it is often used in conjunction with them, such as LC-MS.

The challenge of efficient using of mass spectrometry in biological research requires understanding the basics of various mass analysis and ionization methods and then identifying which technique is most appropriate for solving a given problem.

This book has therefore been written to familiarize biologists with the general principles of mass spectrometry and its utility as a useful research tool.  It provides information about the operational principles, ionization methods, and analysis capabilities in a format targeted to biologists, and particularly in the area of biophysics and biochemistry. These book starts with the basic terminology and definitions in mass spectrometry. Then the physical basis and the instrumentation of mass spectrometry, various methods of ionization and the application of appropriate ionization methods in biology are presented. Different types of analyzers and more detailed description of the application of mass spectrometry in analysis of biological samples are also provided at the end of the book.