How does a mass spectrometer work?

Mass spec is used alongside many analytical techniques, and provides information of the structural formula of a molecule such as proteins. Initially the sample is vapourised and then ionised by bombarding it with high energy electrons that essentially remove an electron off your sample forming a net +1 charge.This part can also cause fragmentation of the molecule.
Following the ions are then accelerated through an electric field and deflected (depending on their mass), by a magnetic field informer to reach. detector where their mass/charge ratio is given and plotted as a graph against intensity.

Answered by Chemistry tutor

2683 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Formic acid (CH2O2) is used as an antibacterial on livestock feed. A sample of formic acid has been found to have a pH = 3, and data shows it has a Ka = 1.6E-4 M. What is the concentration of the sample?


Use the concept of electronegativity to justify why the acid strengths of ethanedioic acid and ethanoic acid are different. (6 marks)


25cm3 of a 0.10moldm-3 solution of sodium hydroxide reacts exactly in a titration with 15cm3 HCl. What is the concentration of the hydrochloric acid?


What is electronegativity?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning