Mass Spectrometry
Start with the big picture
The lesson follows the path from ion formation to detection and explains how ionization choices affect volatility requirements, fragmentation, and matrix tolerance. It contrasts methods including EI, ESI, and MALDI, then surveys mass analyzers such as quadrupoles, TOF, ion traps, Orbitrap, and FT-ICR. Spectrum interpretation covers the molecular ion, base peak, fragmentation patterns, and isotope clusters. The topic also introduces tandem MS/MS for structural investigation and selected or reaction-monitoring approaches for quantitation. Together, these concepts provide a foundation for relating instrument choices to the information a mass spectrum can provide.
What you'll learn
- Describe the stages that produce a mass spectrum from a sample.
- Compare ionization methods by their effects on fragmentation and sample suitability.
- Identify the roles of major mass analyzers and tandem MS/MS.
- Interpret molecular-ion, base-peak, fragment, and isotope-cluster features.
- Explain how monitoring approaches support quantitative mass spectrometry.
Continue your study
Work through the complete notes and reinforce the topic with the study tools available in the full lesson.
