Learn: Atomic Structure

Welcome!Today we'll explore Atomic Structure. This topic is essential for understanding how atoms are organised and how their properties influence chemical behaviour. Let's dive in!

What is Atomic Structure?Atoms are the building blocks of matter. They consist of a nucleus containing protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons in energy levels (shells). Atomic structure explains why elements behave differently in reactions.

Key Terms in Atomic StructureThe atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom. This determines the element. The mass number is the sum of protons and neutrons in the nucleus, showing the atom's mass. Isotopes are atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons, meaning they have different mass numbers.

Time of Flight (TOF) Mass SpectrometryMass spectrometry is a technique to measure the mass of particles. In TOF mass spectrometry, ions are accelerated, ionised, and their flight time is measured to identify their mass-to-charge ratio (m/z).

How TOF Mass Spectrometry Works1. Ionisation: Atoms are ionised, usually by electron impact or electrospray ionisation.2. Acceleration: The ions are accelerated by an electric field.3. Ion Drift: Ions travel through a vacuum tube.4. Detection: The time taken to reach the detector is measured.

Mass Spectra InterpretationMass spectra display peaks corresponding to different ions. The x-axis represents the mass-to-charge ratio (m/z), while the y-axis shows the relative abundance of ions.

Review Time!Fantastic! You've learned about atomic structure, isotopes, TOF mass spectrometry, and mass spectra interpretation. Now let's reinforce your knowledge with a few questions.