Interpreting Mass Spectrum Flashcards
What does y-axis of mass spectrum give?
Abundance of ions
For each element, what does the height of each peak give?
Relative isotopic abundance
What is m/z?
Mass/charge
How do you calculate Ar from mass spectrum(no %)?
1) For each peak, multiply x-axis with y-axis
2) Add up totals
3) Divide by sum of relative abundances
How can a mass spectrum be used to identify relative molecular mass?
1) Molecular ion is formed when 1 electron is removed from molecule
2) Gives peak with mass/charge ratio equal to rfm of molecule
Why do isotopes have similar chemical properties?
Same number of electrons in outer shells, electrons take part in chemical reactions
Equation for Ar
(Σ% abundance x mass of isotope)/ 100