Mass spectrometer conceptual question

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the conceptual understanding of mass spectrometers, specifically the relationship between radius (r), mass (m), and charge (q) in the context of particle deflection. Participants are exploring the implications of the equation r = mv / qb and how it relates to deflection.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the definitions of deflection and radius, discussing how an increase in mass leads to less deflection and whether this is consistent with the equation provided. There is an exploration of the relationship between radius and deflection, with some participants suggesting that smaller radius corresponds to greater deflection.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants raising questions about their understanding of the concepts involved. Some guidance has been offered regarding the relationship between radius and deflection, but there is no explicit consensus on the definitions or implications of these terms.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating potential confusion between the terms deflection and radius, indicating a need for clarity on these concepts as they relate to mass spectrometry. There is an acknowledgment of the complexity of the relationships involved without resolving the underlying questions.

clairez93
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Homework Statement



It's not really a book problem, just a question I encountered in my reading.
For a mass spectrometer, if r = mv / qb, then r is directly proportional to mass and inversely proportional to charge. However, my reading says that the higher the mass, the less deflection. I think I may be confusing deflection with r, then. What is deflection? Why is it different from r? I had formerly thought the amount of deflection referred to r.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Yes but r proportional to m means less deflection with higher m.
An infinite mass would have infinite radius, meaning it goes in a straight line and has no deflection. A small mass will be deflected a lot into circular motion with small r.
 
Yes but if r is directly proportional to m, if m goes up, then r must go up, according to the equation, no? And if q goes down, then r goes up? Am I making a conceptual mistake here?
 
Unless r is not deflection, in that case, what is the difference?
 
You have MORE deflection when r gets SMALLER.
Zero deflection is when it keeps going in a straight line with infinite r.
I guess r could be called the inverse of deflection.
 

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