The mass spectrometer:

Mass spectrometry uses an instrument called mass spectrometer. The different components of the mass spectrometer are:
 
 
  • Inlet system
  • Ion source
  • Mass analyzer
  • Detector

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    Samples can be introduced to the mass spectrometer directly via solids probe, or in the case of mixtures, by the intermediary of chromatography device (e.g. Gas chromatography, Liquid chromatography, Capillary electrophoresis, etc...). Once in the source, sample molecules are subjected to ionization. Ions formed in the source (molecular and fragment ions) acquire some kinetic energy and leave the source. A calibrated analyzer then analyzes the passing ions function of their mass to charge ratios. Different kind of analyzer(s) can be used, Magnetic, Quadrulpole, Ion trap, Fourier Transform, Time of Flight, etc...The ion beam exiting the analyzer assembly is then detected and the signal is registered.

    (EI=Electron Impact; CI=Chemical Ionization; SIMS=Secondary Ions Mass Spec; FAB=Fast Atom Bombardment; LDMS=Laser Desorption Mass Spec; PDMS=Plasma Desorption Mass Spec; TS=Thermospray; AS=Aerospray; ESMS=Electrospray Mass Spec).

    Mass Analyzers: (EB=Electrostatic-Magnetic; ion trap; Q=Quadrupole; TOF=Time of Flight.)

    To be continued

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