CH301 Semester 1 2019

Tutorial on Mass Spectrometry

1. The mass spectra of several compounds are given below. Write the structure of the
important ions recorded at the m/z values listed in the spectrum.
2. The compound below gave peaks at m/z 43 and m/z 121. Draw the two α-cleavage
pathways that are possible for this molecule and use these to explain the two peaks.

CH3

HO

3. The mass spectrum of pentan-2-one gives fragment ions at m/z 71, 58 and 43. The
molecular ion peak was found at 86. Suggest a fragmentation pathway to account
for these peaks.
H3C CH3

4. Predict the fragmentation products of compounds A and B.

CH3
CH3
CH3

A B

5. The following are the spectra of the three isomeric alcohols, 3-pentanol, 2-pentanol
and 3-methyl-1-butanol. Assign each spectrum with reasoning.