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

2029 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What happens to the physical properties(solubility/boiling/melting point) as chain length increases, and as functional groups are added onto the chemical compound?


Does Mg or Al have the higher first ionisation energy? Explain your answer.


How does Le Chatelier's Principle allow you to predict the change of the position of equilibrium for an equilibrium reaction?


What stabilizes a carbocation in a nucleophilic substitution reactions?


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning