Final answer:
The ion source used is electrospray ionization (ESI) and the mass analyzer used is quadrupole time-of-flight (Q-TOF). ESI is based on the formation of charged droplets from a solution, while Q-TOF measures the time of flight of ions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ion source used for the identification of soy isoflavones extracted from soy flour is electrospray ionization (ESI). ESI is a soft ionization technique that produces ions in the gas phase from a solution through the application of a high voltage. It is widely used in mass spectrometry for its ability to ionize a wide range of molecules, including polar and nonpolar compounds.
The mass analyzer used for the identification of soy isoflavones is a quadrupole time-of-flight (Q-TOF) mass analyzer. The Q-TOF mass analyzer combines high mass accuracy and resolution with the capability of performing tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) experiments. It allows for the accurate measurement of the mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) of ions, which is essential for identifying and characterizing molecules.
The principle of ESI is based on the formation of charged droplets from a solution, which are then desolvated and further ionized in the gas phase. The principle of Q-TOF mass analyzer involves the measurement of the time of flight of ions in a mass spectrometer. This time of flight is directly proportional to the mass-to-charge ratio of the ions, allowing for the determination of their mass.