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.

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the electronic configuration for Sulphur?


Draw an example using a diagram of Carbon, three "Y" substrates and an "L" indicating any leaving group the Sn1 nucleophilic substitution reaction. (3 marks) Which step is fastest (1 mark).


Discuss the 2 most-commonly encountered representations of benzene, providing an advantage and disadvantage for each


Define ferromagnetism, paramagnetism and diamagnetism, and determine whether the following complexes a) AgCl b) [Fe(CN)6]4- c) [Mn(CN)6]4- d) Co(H2O)6Cl2 are ferromagnetic, diamagnetic or paramagnetic giving a full justification for your reasoning.