Mass Spectrometry Basics
This worksheet introduces Grade 9 students to the fundamental principles and components of mass spectrometry, including its applications in chemistry.
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Mass Spectrometry Basics
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Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your knowledge. For multiple choice questions, circle the correct option. For fill-in-the-blanks, complete the sentence with the appropriate term.
Mass spectrometry is a powerful analytical technique used to identify unknown compounds, quantify known compounds, and elucidate structural and chemical properties of molecules. It works by measuring the mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) of ions.
1. What fundamental property of ions does a mass spectrometer measure?
Their velocity
Their mass-to-charge ratio
Their kinetic energy
Their temperature
2. Which of the following is NOT a primary application of mass spectrometry?
Identifying unknown compounds
Measuring the pH of a solution
Quantifying known compounds
Elucidating molecular structure
3. In a mass spectrometer, the sample is first converted into ions.
4. The separation of ions in a mass spectrometer is based on their ratio.
5. Briefly describe the main role of the ion source in a mass spectrometer.
6. Explain why a vacuum is necessary inside a mass spectrometer.
The image below shows a component of a mass spectrometer.
7. What is the purpose of the component shown in the image above within a mass spectrometer?