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

2564 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

When you are given a table of half cells with values for electrode potentials, how do you find the strongest oxidising and reducing agent?


How can you test for aldehydes and ketones?


How can you deduce the order of the reaction with respect to the reagent based on the graph of its concentration against time?


Explain why Xenon had a lower first ionisation enthalpy than Neon. (3 marks)


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