Mass spectrometer

Definition

A mass spectrometer is an analytical instrument used to measure the masses and relative abundances of atoms or molecules in samples. It works by ionizing the sample, separating ions based on their mass-to-charge ratio, and detecting them with sensors.

Analogy

Imagine a mass spectrometer as a high-tech sorting machine for atoms and molecules. It takes a mixed bag of particles, separates them based on their weight, and counts how many of each type are present.

Related terms

Ionization: The process of converting neutral atoms or molecules into charged ions.

Mass-to-Charge Ratio: The ratio of an ion's mass to its charge, which determines its path in a mass spectrometer.

Detector: A component in a mass spectrometer that detects and measures the ions after they have been separated.