The diagram shows a simplified mass spectrum for butan-2-one - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 19 - 2023 - Paper 1
Question 19
The diagram shows a simplified mass spectrum for butan-2-one.
Which equation best represents the process that produces the particle responsible for the peak at m/z ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The diagram shows a simplified mass spectrum for butan-2-one - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 19 - 2023 - Paper 1
Step 1
Which equation best represents the process that produces the particle responsible for the peak at m/z 43?
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Answer
The peak at m/z 43 corresponds to the fragment ion that includes the acetyl group (CH₃CO). Analyzing the provided options, option B:
ightarrow ext{CH}_3 ext{CO} + ext{CH}_2$$
is the correct representation of the process that leads to the formation of the CH₃CO fragment and can explain the peak observed at m/z 43.