Prediction of numbers of singlets, doublets, and triplets in poorly resolved separations by statistical-overlap theory

A recently improved theory for the distribution of resolution in complex se parations described by statistical-overlap theory is used to predict the av erage numbers of singlet, doublet, and triplet peaks in such separations, e ven when the peak capacity is much less than the number of components requi ring separation. The theory is fundamental and modifies previously publishe d equations for these numbers by causing the average minimum resolution tha t defines saturation to depend on saturation itself. Interestingly, theory shows that the resolutions describing the separation and overlap of single- component peaks in singlets, doublets, and triplets actually differ. The th eory predicts correctly the numbers of singlets, doublets, and triplets in computer simulations of separations, even at high saturation. Example calcu lations are provided to show the ease with which the theory can be used. (C ) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.