What happens during the detection phase of mass spectroscopy?

During the detection phase of mass spectrometry, the focus is on measuring the properties of the ions generated during the earlier stages of the process. When the correct choice is selected, it indicates that a calibrated detector is recording the degree of deflection of ions as they travel through an electric or magnetic field. This deflection is directly related to the mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) of the ions. The detector translates this information into a mass reading, which is critical for identifying and quantifying the components of the sample being analyzed.

The process hinges on the fact that ions of different mass-to-charge ratios will experience varying degrees of deflection when exposed to a magnetic or electric field. By calibrating the detector against known standards, accurate measurements can be obtained, enabling the determination of the molecular weight and composition of the analyte. This aspect is fundamental to the overall operation of mass spectrometry, as the resulting data forms the basis for much of the analysis.

In other phases of mass spectrometry, such as ionization, the sample is vaporized and ionized for analysis, but this does not occur during the detection phase itself. No cooling of ions happens to identify their identities, nor is there any neutralization process required for safety in the context of