Chapter 24, Problem 3Q

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason for the different base peak values of $\text{1-pentanol}$ and $\text{2-pentanol}$ should be explained.

Concept introduction:

Mass spectrometry is an important spectroscopic method to determine the molecular weights and molecular formulas of the compounds. It also can help in the identification of compound or determination of its structure.

A mass spectrograph is plotted between the intensity of ions on y-axis and $\text{m/z}$ on x axis. Mass spectrometry works as follows:

• A sample is converted into a gaseous ion by an ionization technique in the mass spectrometer.
• Then on the basis of mass-to-charge $\left(\text{m/z}\right)$ ratios, gaseous ions are arranged.
• These ions generate electric current at detector and a mass spectrum is formed.

To assign the molecular weights to compounds the rule of thirteen is utilized in mass spectrometry. Thirteen here is obtained by the addition of the mass of carbon and hydrogen.