CAIE A Level Chemistry 9701 · Analytical techniques

Analytical techniques: explain question

Explain4 marksStandard

The mass spectrum of an organic compound, Z, was recorded. The molecular ion peak is observed at m/z 84. The relative abundances of selected peaks are shown in the table.

m/zrelative abundance / %
84100
855.5
8632
29-

There is also a fragment peak at m/z 29.

Explain how the mass spectrum of Z provides evidence for each of the following.

(i) The molecular mass of Z is 84. (ii) Z contains 5 carbon atoms. (iii) Z contains a chlorine atom. (iv) The fragment at m/z 29 is likely to be CX2HX5X+\ce{C2H5+}.

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