Understanding Chemistry

 

MASS SPECTROMETRY MENU

 

How the mass spectrometer works . . .

An explanation of how a mass spectrum is produced

The mass spectra of elements . . .

How the mass spectrum of an element can be used to find its relative atomic mass.

The mass spectra of organic compounds

The formation of fragmentation patterns . . .

What the mass spectra of organic compounds look like, how the patterns are formed, and the sort of information you can get from them.

The molecular ion (M+) peak . . .

How the molecular ion peak can be used to find the relative formula mass of the compound and its molecular formula.

The M+1 peak . . .

How the M+1 peak arises, and its use in finding the number of carbon atoms a compound contains.

Organic compounds containing halogen atoms . . .

How the M+2 (and possibly M+4) peak arises, and its use in showing the presence of chlorine or bromine in a compound.



Go to instrumental analysis menu . . .

Go to Main Menu . . .



© Jim Clark 2000