Electron capture dissociation

DRAFT DEFINITION
Electron capture dissociation
An ion/electron interaction wherein a protonated molecule with multiple-charge (designated, e.g. [M+nH]n+) combines with an electron of low translational energy (usually less than 3 eV) to form an ion with odd-electron sites which immediately bring about charge-mediated fragmentation. Particularly when the protonated molecule is polypeptide, the fragmentation exclusively occurs at the peptide backbone if the polypeptide does not contain cystine residues. This term should be distinguished from 'electron-induced excitation in organics (EIEIO)' which involves excitation of the reactant ion with an electron beam.
Considered between 2004 and 2006 but not included in the 2006 PAC submission
This is an unofficial draft definition presented for information and comment. Recommended terms | Full list of terms

See additional comments on the Electron capture dissociation discussion page (archive of discussion between 2004 and 2006)

External Links

Wikipedia:Electron capture dissociation