When vaporised, isotopes of an element can be separated in a mass spectrometer. Name the three processes that occur in a mass spectrometer before the vaporised isotopes can be detected. State how each process is achieved. (6 marks)

Once the sample is vaporised, high energy electrons are fired at the sample which knocks off a loosely held electron. (1) This step is known as election impact ionisation. (2) Due to the presence of a charge, the ions can be accelerated (3) by an electric field. (4). Once the ions enter the flight tube, they are deflected (5) by a magnetic field (6).

MF
Answered by Madalina F. Chemistry tutor

5123 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why are solutions of transition metal ions often coloured


"Sulfur Dioxide can be represented as a sulfur atom with double bonds to each of two oxygen atoms, explain the shape of this molecule and predict the bond angle".


Lead (IV) oxide reacts with concentrated hydrochloric acid as follows: PbO2(s) + 4HCl(aq) -----> PbCl2(s) + Cl2(g) + 2H2O(l) What mass of lead chloride would be obtained from 37.2g of PbO2, and what mass of chlorine gas would be produced


Explain what is meant by the term "rate of reaction".


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