Week 10: Mass Spectroscopy

Question 1

What is the fundamental principle behind mass spectrometry?

Question 2

Define the term “mass-to-charge ratio” (m/z).

Question 3

Explain the difference between electron ionization (EI) and chemical ionization (CI).

Question 4

What is the purpose of a mass analyzer in a mass spectrometer?

Question 5

Describe the function of a detector in mass spectrometry.

Question 6

How is the molecular ion peak identified in a mass spectrum?

Question 7

What information can be obtained from the fragmentation pattern in a mass spectrum?

Question 8

Explain the concept of isotope peaks and how they can be used to determine the elemental composition of a molecule.

Question 9

How can the relative abundance of peaks in a mass spectrum be interpreted?

Question 10

Given a simple mass spectrum, identify the molecular ion peak and two possible fragment ions.

Question 11

Describe how mass spectrometry is used in the field of proteomics.

Question 12

Explain the role of mass spectrometry in drug discovery and development.

Question 13

How is mass spectrometry used in environmental analysis?

Question 14

Discuss the application of mass spectrometry in forensic science.

Question 15

What are some emerging applications of mass spectrometry in research?

Question 16

Explain the concept of tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS).

Question 17

Describe the difference between quadrupole and time-of-flight mass analyzers.

Question 18

How does electrospray ionization (ESI) work, and why is it suitable for analyzing biomolecules?

Question 19

Explain the concept of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI).

Question 20

Discuss the challenges and limitations of mass spectrometry.

Question 21

Given a molecular formula and a fragmentation pattern, propose a possible structure for the molecule.

Question 22

Interpret a mass spectrum of a mixture of two compounds.

Question 23

Design a mass spectrometry experiment to analyze a specific type of sample.

Question 24

Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of different ionization techniques for a particular application.

Question 25

Analyze a research article that utilizes mass spectrometry and discuss the findings.

Question 26

Explain the role of vacuum in mass spectrometry.

Question 27

Describe the difference between positive and negative ion mode in mass spectrometry.

Question 28

How can mass spectrometry be used to determine the purity of a compound?

Question 29

Discuss the ethical considerations associated with the use of mass spectrometry in certain applications.

Question 30

Research a recent advancement in mass spectrometry technology and explain its significance.