quadrupolemassespektrometre

A quadrupole mass spectrometer is an analytical instrument used to determine the mass-to-charge ratio of ions. It operates by using oscillating electric fields to separate ions based on their mass. The core of the instrument consists of four parallel rods, arranged symmetrically. A direct current (DC) and an alternating current (AC) voltage are applied to these rods. This combination creates a complex oscillating electric field within the space between the rods. Ions are introduced into this field and their trajectory depends on their mass-to-charge ratio and the applied voltages. For a specific combination of DC and AC voltages, only ions within a narrow range of mass-to-charge ratios will have a stable trajectory and pass through the rods to reach the detector. Other ions will collide with the rods or be ejected from the field. By systematically varying the applied voltages, the quadrupole can be scanned to detect ions of different mass-to-charge ratios, thereby generating a mass spectrum. Quadrupole mass spectrometers are known for their relatively simple design, robustness, and good sensitivity, making them widely used in various fields such as environmental monitoring, pharmaceutical analysis, and research.