Quantification of resolution for two‐dimensional separations

The resolution metric for two-dimensional separations is reviewed. The Euclidean norm description of resolution, introduced by Giddings, is evaluated for its applicability in describing resolution of bivariate Gaussian zones. The experimentally accessible peak and valley heights in two-dimensional separations are shown to be sufficient for quantifying resolution in two dimensions under a number of assumptions. The equation that gives resolution as a function of the peak-to-valley ratio is shown to be the same for one- and two-dimensional separations. In fact, this equation is dimensionally invariant, that is, the same equation is applicable for any number of dimensions when resolution is defined in a certain consistent manner.