What is mass spectrometry and how is it used in organic analysis?

Mass spectrometry is a technique used to determine the molecular mass and structure of organic compounds.

Mass spectrometry is a powerful analytical tool used in organic chemistry to identify and characterise organic compounds. It works by ionising molecules and then separating them based on their mass-to-charge ratio. This produces a mass spectrum, which can be used to identify the molecular mass and structure of the compound.

In organic analysis, mass spectrometry is used to identify unknown compounds, determine the purity of a sample, and study the fragmentation patterns of molecules. It is particularly useful in the identification of complex mixtures, such as those found in natural products or pharmaceuticals.

One of the advantages of mass spectrometry is that it can be used to identify trace amounts of compounds, making it useful in forensic science and environmental analysis. It is also a non-destructive technique, meaning that the sample can be recovered and analysed further using other techniques.

Overall, mass spectrometry is an essential tool in organic analysis, providing valuable information on the molecular structure and composition of organic compounds. Its versatility and sensitivity make it a valuable tool in a wide range of applications, from drug discovery to environmental monitoring.