Mass spectrometer

Definition

A mass spectrometer is an analytical device that measures the mass-to-charge ratio of ions. It utilizes magnetic and electric fields to separate ions based on their specific mass and charge.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mass spectrometers utilize magnetic fields to bend the paths of ions, causing different ions to follow unique trajectories based on their mass-to-charge ratio.
2. The force experienced by an ion in a magnetic field is given by $F = qvB$, where $q$ is the charge, $v$ is the velocity, and $B$ is the magnetic field strength.
3. Ions are first accelerated through an electric field before entering the magnetic field region in many types of mass spectrometers.
4. The radius of curvature for an ion's path in a uniform magnetic field is given by $r = \frac{mv}{qB}$, where $m$ is the ion's mass.
5. Mass spectrometry can be used to identify unknown compounds, determine isotopic composition, and study molecular structures.

Review Questions

• How does a magnetic field influence the path of an ion in a mass spectrometer?
• What formula describes the force experienced by an ion moving through a magnetic field?
• Why are ions often accelerated before entering the magnetic field region of a mass spectrometer?

Related terms

Magnetic Field:

A region around a magnet or current-carrying conductor where magnetic forces can be observed.

Electric Field: A region around charged particles or objects within which other charged particles experience a force.

Ionization: The process by which atoms or molecules gain or lose electrons to form ions.