Mass Spectrometry Homework: Separating Uranium Ions

In summary, a commercial mass spectrometer is used to separate uranium ions of mass 3.92 multiplied by 10-25 kg and charge 3.20 multiplied by 10-19 C. The ions are accelerated with a potential difference of 110 kV and then pass through a uniform magnetic field, bending in a path with a radius of 0.80 m. After passing through a slit, they are collected in a cup. The questions posed are: (a) What is the magnitude of the perpendicular magnetic field in the separator? (b) If the machine separates 200 mg of material per hour, what is the current of the desired ions? (c) In this case, what is the thermal energy produced in
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Pharoah
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Homework Statement


A certain commercial mass spectrometer is used to separate uranium ions of mass 3.92 multiplied by 10-25 kg and charge 3.20 multiplied by 10-19 C from related species. The ions are accelerated through a potential difference of 110 kV and then pass into a uniform magnetic field, where they are bent in a path of radius 0.80 m. After traveling through 180° and passing through a slit of width 1.00 mm and height 1.00 cm, they are collected in a cup.

(a) What is the magnitude of the (perpendicular) magnetic field in the separator?

(b) If the machine is used to separate out 200 mg of material per hour, calculate the current of the desired ions in the machine.


(c) In that case, calculate the thermal energy produced in the cup in 1.00 h.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Section '2' and '3' in your post are where you place required information, and your thoughts/attempts at answering the problem. You should try that, then we'll be happy to help.
 

FAQ: Mass Spectrometry Homework: Separating Uranium Ions

What is mass spectrometry?

Mass spectrometry is a scientific technique used to analyze the masses and structures of molecules and atoms. It involves ionizing a sample and then separating the ions based on their mass-to-charge ratio, which provides information about the composition and structure of the sample.

What is the purpose of separating uranium ions in mass spectrometry homework?

Separating uranium ions in mass spectrometry homework is used to determine the isotopic composition of uranium. This is important in nuclear forensics, where the identification of different isotopes of uranium can provide information about the origin and history of nuclear materials.

What is the process for separating uranium ions in mass spectrometry?

The process for separating uranium ions in mass spectrometry involves several steps. First, the sample is ionized, typically using an electron beam. The ions are then accelerated and focused into a beam before passing through a series of electric and magnetic fields, which separate the ions based on their mass-to-charge ratio. Finally, the separated ions are detected and their relative abundances are recorded.

What are the challenges of separating uranium ions in mass spectrometry?

One of the main challenges of separating uranium ions in mass spectrometry is the complexity of the sample. Uranium can have many different isotopes, and the sample may also contain other elements that can interfere with the analysis. Additionally, the high radioactivity of uranium can make handling and analyzing the sample more difficult.

How is mass spectrometry used in other areas of science?

Mass spectrometry is a versatile technique that is used in many different areas of science. In addition to nuclear forensics, it is commonly used in fields such as chemistry, biochemistry, and environmental science for identifying and analyzing molecules and compounds. It is also used in medical diagnostics, drug development, and food safety testing.

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