Spectrus: Using extracted ion chromatograms (XIC) to clarify overlapping peaks

Description
In complex xC/UV/MS data, chromatographic peaks may overlap in the total ion chromatogram (TIC). Extracted ion chromatograms (XIC) for specific m/z values help separate signals from different components.

Solution

1. Load the xC/UV/MS dataset in Spectrus.
2. Identify m/z values of interest (from spectra or expected components).
3. Create extracted ion chromatograms:
   • Use the XIC or Extract function from the Analysis section of the xC/UV/MS toolbar.
   • Specify (or click on) a m/z value and a suitable mass tolerance.
4. Examine XICs:
   • Evaluate retention times where each m/z shows peaks.
   • Determine whether overlapping peaks in the TIC are due to different components.