Language
Country/Area
No result found
The Amazing Journey of Mass Spectrometry: How to Make Tiny Molecules Visible?
Mass Spectrometry (MS) is a powerful analytical technique that measures the mass-to-charge ratio of ions. Through this process, researchers can obtain key information from tiny molecules, allowing them to be analyzed and identified in detail. The history of mass spectrometry can be traced back to the 19th century. This technology has now been widely used in many fields such as environmental science, chemistry, biomedicine and drug development, helping us separate pure components from complex samples.
Mass spectrometry can not only analyze pure substances, but also handle complex mixtures, making it an important tool in scientific research.
During the operation of mass spectrometry, the sample can be solid, liquid or gaseous, and first needs to be converted into charged ions through an ionization process. These ions are then separated according to their mass-to-charge ratio and ultimately detected by a detector to produce a representative mass spectrum.
History of Mass Spectrometry
The story of the development of mass spectrometry began in 1886, when Eugen Goldstein observed the existence of positive ion flow in low-pressure gas discharge and called it "channel rays" (Kanalstrahlen). Wilhelm Wien's research further improved the technique and led to the mass spectrometer. J. J. Thomson improved upon existing technology and created the mass spectrometer recording device that formed the basis of modern mass spectrometry.
The advent of modern mass spectrometry has ushered in a new era of scientific analysis, enabling a deeper understanding of molecules.
Components of a mass spectrometer
A mass spectrometer consists of three main parts: an ion source, a mass analyzer, and a detector.
The function of the ion source is to convert the sample into ions. In the ion source, different ionization techniques depend on the phase of the sample and are suitable for different analytical requirements.
Ion Source Technology
For example, electron ionization (EI) and chemical ionization (CI) are commonly used for the analysis of gases and vapors, while common methods for biological samples include electrospray ionization (ESI) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization technique (MALDI). The choice of these ionization techniques directly affects the results and depth of sample analysis.
Due to the characteristics of different ionization methods, analytical flexibility and accuracy are increased.
Mass Analyzer
The main function of a mass analyzer is to separate ions based on their mass-to-charge ratio. Common mass analyzers include quadrupole mass filters and time-of-flight mass spectrometers (TOF). These instruments operate based on the interaction of electric and magnetic fields, which cause ions of different masses to be deflected differently as they move.
Application of mass spectrometry technology
Mass spectrometry plays a key role in fields such as environmental science, food safety, and pharmaceutical analysis. For example, in the drug development process, mass spectrometry can help researchers quickly identify the structure of new compounds and determine their composition and concentration.
The development of mass spectrometry technology has improved our ability to detect tiny molecules, which is of great significance in many fields.
Future Outlook
With the advancement of science and technology and the development of nanotechnology, mass spectrometry will continue to evolve towards higher sensitivity and resolution. We can foresee that future mass spectrometers will integrate more cutting-edge technologies, allowing tiny molecules to be identified and analyzed more quickly and accurately, becoming invaluable assets in various scientific fields.
In this wonderful journey of mass spectrometry, have you ever wondered what scientific mysteries are hidden behind these tiny molecules?
