What’s the Difference Between LCMS and LCMS-MS?
LCMS uses an HPLC unit paired with a mass spectrometry detector. LCMSMS, or tandem mass spectrometry has two mass spectrometry detectors. LCMSMS allows for multiple ionization events to occur. It is typically used when a single ionization event will not offer the desired sensitivity results.
How does LCMS Differ from HPLC?
While LCMS can be utilized in a similar manner as HPLC because they each leverage liquid chromatography, HPLC uses UV and other detectors, where LCMS uses mass spectrometry detection. HPLC applications require a complete separation as the molecules exit chromatographically, while LCMS can uniquely identify them if they exit together, or with less sophisticated chromatographic techniques.