Mass Spectrometers

What is a Mass Spectrometer?

Mass spectrometers provide accurate mass measurements of a sample’s molecules—sample identification and quantitation, amino acid sequencing, and reaction monitoring are a few common uses. Mass spectrometry is often coupled with other separation techniques, such as GC-MS and LC-MS. Fields that use mass spectrometers include genomics and proteomics, drug discovery, environmental, and clinical testing.

How Does a Mass Spectrometer Work?

Samples are loaded onto the MS and ionized by the ion source (electron or chemical ionization, ESI, or MALDI, for example). A mass analyzer such as time of flight (TOF), ion trap, or quadrupole separates the ions based on their mass and charge. A detector such as a microchannel plate or electron multiplier then measures the separated ions.

Examples of Product Reviews for Mass Spectrometry:

What to Consider When Choosing a Mass Spectrometer

There is a huge range of mass spectrometers on the market, at a variety of price points. Pertinent features will depend on your sample type and the data quality necessary, so take note of an instrument’s sensitivity, dynamic range, and software control.