| GC/MS | Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) | GC analysis is a common confirmation test. Among its uses are drug testing and environmental contaminant identification. GC analysis separates all of the components in a sample and provides a representative spectral output. The technician injects the sample into the injection port of the GC device. The GC instrument vaporizes the sample and then separates and analyzes the various components. Each component ideally produces a specific spectral peak that may be recorded on a paper chart or electronically. The time elapsed between injection and elution is called the "retention time." The retention time can help to differentiate between some compounds. The size of the peaks is proportional to the quantity of the corresponding substances in the specimen analyzed. The peak is measured from the baseline to the tip of the peak. |