Is a chromatogram the same record as a mass spectrum?

No. A chromatogram is signal versus time. A mass spectrum is ion signal versus mass-to-charge. Some reports include both. Some include only one.

Does a single tall peak prove identity?

No. Peak shape supports a purity discussion under that method. Identity still needs the mass comparison the report actually prints.

Glossary · 2026-09-24

Scientific lead: Alice Kay, Ph.D.

Chromatogram on a peptide COA

A chromatogram is the picture of a chromatographic run: detector signal against time. Peaks are integrated, and a peptide Certificate of Analysis often reduces that picture to an area percent for the named peak. The percentage belongs to the stated method. It does not, by itself, name the sequence that produced the peak.

Read the trace next to the mass result, not instead of it. Method names such as HPLC or UPLC stay on the PDF. The comparison note is HPLC versus LC-MS. A photograph of a chromatogram is not the laboratory file. Research-use only.

Frequently asked questions

Is a chromatogram the same record as a mass spectrum?: No. A chromatogram is signal versus time. A mass spectrum is ion signal versus mass-to-charge. Some reports include both. Some include only one.
Does a single tall peak prove identity?: No. Peak shape supports a purity discussion under that method. Identity still needs the mass comparison the report actually prints.

Research-use only. BlueNex Labs does not provide medical or veterinary advice. Confirm your institution’s policies before purchase.