atmospheric pressure ionization [obsolete]
in mass spectrometry
An ambiguous term; in essence, it is used to describe chemical ionization at atmospheric pressure. It is recommended that use of the term be discontinued.
Source:
PAC, 1991, 63, 1541 (Recommendations for nomenclature and symbolism for mass spectroscopy (including an appendix of terms used in vacuum technology). (Recommendations 1991)) on page 1547