Question

Show how to find a compound using the MS spectra with an example and a clear idea on how to solve those type/general idea

Answer 1

Mass spectrum can be used to identify a compound

say we have benzylalcohol

It would show a molecular ion peak at m/z 108

loss of -OH would show a peak at m/z 91

Loss of -CH2 gives a peak at m/z 77 for phenyl moeity

Thus, the compound is confirmed

Similarly,

for compound = benzoic acid

we would get a molecular ion peak at 122

loss of -OH gives peak at m/z 105

This is typical peak and the compound can be easily identified by the fragment peaks for the compound under study.