Provide an example of the types of mass spectrometry used in organic analysis.

Electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) are commonly used in organic analysis.

ESI-MS is used to analyse polar and non-polar compounds with molecular weights ranging from small molecules to large biomolecules. In ESI-MS, the sample is ionised by spraying it into a high voltage field, and the resulting ions are separated based on their mass-to-charge ratio in a mass analyser. ESI-MS is particularly useful for identifying unknown compounds and determining the molecular weight of a compound.

MALDI-MS is used to analyse large biomolecules such as proteins and peptides. In MALDI-MS, the sample is mixed with a matrix and deposited onto a metal plate. The matrix absorbs the laser energy and transfers it to the sample, causing it to ionise. The resulting ions are separated based on their mass-to-charge ratio in a mass analyser. MALDI-MS is particularly useful for identifying and quantifying proteins in complex mixtures.

Both ESI-MS and MALDI-MS are powerful tools in organic analysis, allowing researchers to identify and characterise a wide range of compounds.