ABSTRACT

Softer ionization techniques are used to obtain definitive information regarding the molecular weight of a substance. Mass spectra obtained with these techniques are also discussed.

In the broadest sense, a spectrum is a continuum consisting of an ordered arrangement by a particular characteristic. The visible light spectrum is the range of wavelengths or frequencies of electromagnetic radiation visible to the human eye, extending from 400 (violet) to 650 nm (red). A political spectrum can be said to be a range of political ideas extending from a conservative right wing favoring individualism to a liberal left wing favoring community. A mass spectrum represents a range of molecular and fragment particles differentiated according to their mass.