How does a Gas Chromatograph-Mass Spectrometer detect quantities?

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Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) is utilized for detecting and quantifying specific molecules in samples by separating fragments based on their mass/charge ratios. The mass analyzer plays a crucial role in identifying these fragments, but the detection of their quantities is achieved through measuring current and counting electrons. A total ion chromatogram can provide insights into the abundance of each fragment detected. Understanding the separation process post-ionization is also essential for effective analysis. Further reading on these topics can enhance comprehension of GC-MS functionality.
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So I am working on theoretical project that challenges my group to detect and quantify a certain molecule in a sample. For the detection and quantification we have chosen to work with a gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy. However I am finding difficulties in how this device is able to detect amounts of certain fragments. I am aware that there is a mass analyser that can detect fragments with a certain mass/charge ratio but what detects the amount of every fragment? Looking for a good source to read into this detection method or just straight answers here. Thanks
 
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Can you give us some links to the reading you've been doing so far about how those types of instruments work? Thanks.
 
“TOTAL ION CHROMATOGRAM”

Good search term
 
Measuring current and counting electrons are basically the same thing.
 
BBChem42 said:
So I am working on theoretical project that challenges my group to detect and quantify a certain molecule in a sample. For the detection and quantification we have chosen to work with a gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy. However I am finding difficulties in how this device is able to detect amounts of certain fragments. I am aware that there is a mass analyser that can detect fragments with a certain mass/charge ratio but what detects the amount of every fragment? Looking for a good source to read into this detection method or just straight answers here. Thanks
How does your mass spectrometer separate the various fragments after ionization?
 

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