Which of these moves most quickly through a mass spectrometer?
A) a large,uncharged molecule
B) a small,uncharged molecule
C) a large,charged molecule
D) a small,charged molecule
E) an uncharged protein complex

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a mass spectrometer, the smaller and lighter molecules move more quickly than larger ones. Additionally, charged molecules are deflected more strongly by the electromagnetic fields present in the instrument. Therefore, the small, charged molecule (Option D) will move most quickly through the mass spectrometer.

Which of These Moves Most Quickly Through a Mass Spectrometer