atoms, ions and compounds Flashcards

1
Q

what are isotopes?

A

atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons and different masses

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2
Q

what is relative isotopic mass?

A

the mass of an isotope relative to 1/12 of carbon-12

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3
Q

what is relative atomic mass?

A

the weighted mean mass of an atom of the element relative to 1/12 carbon-12

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4
Q

how would one use a mass spectrometer?

A
  1. place sample in the MS
  2. vaporise using heat
  3. bombard it with high-energy electrons (ionisation)
  4. accelerate the ions towards the magnetic sector
  5. the ions are deflected and then detected on a mass:charge ratio (m/z)
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5
Q

how are the isotopes detected in a mass spectrometer?

A
  1. heavier ions move more slowly and are harder to deflect than lighter ions
  2. m/z = relative mass of ion/relative charge on ion
  3. each ion detected adds to its respective signal so abundances can be calculated
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