Isotopic pattern practical aspects

Some practical aspects of isotopic patterns as commonly observed in mass spectra should now be considered. Although it seems trivial, the first step is the recognition of an isotopic pattern as such, and especially for beginners this is not always easy. Especially if signals from compounds differing by two or four hydrogens are superimposed or if such a superimposition can not a priori be excluded, a careful stepwise check of the observed pattern has to be performed to avoid misinterpretation of mass spectral data. Similar care has to be taken when isotopically labeled compounds are involved. Next, potential pitfalls for the novice, the correct treatment, and the benefits of isotopic patterns are discussed. 

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