ORGANIC ANALYSIS

• What are the two analytical techniques emphasized in the AQA AS specification unit 2?

  Mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy
• Why are mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy considered key analytical techniques?

  They provide essential data for chemical analysis
• What is a common misconception about the difficulty of mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy?

  They are very advanced and require training
• What type of questions can students expect about mass spectrometry in exams?

  Application-type questions based on analysis
• What are the key components of a mass spectrometer?

  • Ionizer
  • Acceleration plates
  • Electromagnet for deflection
  • Detector
• What does the mass spectrum of a substance indicate?

  It shows M/Z values of detected ions
• In mass spectrometry, what does M/Z stand for?

  Mass over charge
• What is the significance of the molecular ion peak in a mass spectrum?

  It indicates the molecular mass of the compound
• If a peak is found at M/Z 46, what can be inferred about the molecular ion?

  It has a molecular mass of 46
• How does fragmentation affect the mass spectrum?

  It produces multiple peaks representing fragments
• Why might a peak appear at half the M/Z value of another peak?

  It indicates a molecule with double the charge
• What is the general formula for alkanes?

  C_nH_2n+2
• What is the molecular formula for propane?

  C₃H₈
• How can high-resolution mass spectrometry differentiate between sulfuric acid and phosphoric acid?

  By using precise atomic mass values
• What is the molecular mass of sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) calculated using atomic masses?

  98.079 g/mol
• What is the molecular mass of phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄) calculated using atomic masses?

  97.994 g/mol