Depict a sketch of the mass spectrum featuring the molecular ion peaks of bromomethane.
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for a sketch of the mass spectrum that includes the molecular ion peaks related to bromomethane. This involves understanding the mass spectrometry of bromomethane and how to represent it graphically.
Answer
Peaks at m/z 94 and 96 for CH3Br, 94 is taller.
The mass spectrum of bromomethane will feature molecular ion peaks at m/z 94 and m/z 96, with the peak at 94 being more intense due to the greater natural abundance of 79Br.
Answer for screen readers
The mass spectrum of bromomethane will feature molecular ion peaks at m/z 94 and m/z 96, with the peak at 94 being more intense due to the greater natural abundance of 79Br.
More Information
Bromine's isotopes create a distinctive M+2 peak, useful for identifying bromine-containing compounds. This occurs due to the near equal abundance of the two isotopes.
Tips
A common mistake is to assume equal peak heights for isotopes. Verify isotopic abundances.
Sources
- CH3Br mass spectrum of bromomethane fragmentation pattern - docbrown.info
- mass spectra - the M+2 peak - Chemguide - chemguide.co.uk
