Quadrupole mass analyzer

Definition

A quadrupole mass analyzer is a device used in mass spectrometry to separate ions of different mass-to-charge ratios by using oscillating electrical fields. It consists of four parallel rods, with each opposing rod pair being electrically connected.

Related terms

Mass Spectrometry: A technique that measures masses within a sample by ionizing chemical compounds to generate charged molecules or molecule fragments.

Ionization Source: The part of a mass spectrometer that converts atoms or molecules into ions, typically through electron ionization or chemical ionization.

Mass: to-Charge Ratio (m/z) - A dimensionless quantity that represents the mass of an ion divided by its charge number, crucial for analyzing and identifying substances in mass spectrometry