Final answer:
The ion chromatograph searches for ions in residues to detect fragments of chemical explosives. Mass spectrometry separates these ions to identify substances by their charge-to-mass ratios, distinguishing between cations and anions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ion chromatograph in the context mentioned is used to search for ions, which are positively or negatively charged molecules present in the residue that indicate fragments of the original chemical explosive. These ions are crucial in identifying the substances through their charge-to-mass ratios.
Mass spectrometry (MS) is a technique widely used in conjunction with ion chromatography to analyze and identify substances in various fields, such as chemistry, forensics, and environmental science. By vaporizing the sample and ionizing its components, a mass spectrometer can separate and detect these ions.
The deflection of the ions in a magnetic or electric field is dependent on their mass and charge, allowing for accurate identification based on the mass spectrum produced.
In mass spectrometry, species with overall positive charges are termed cations, while those with overall negative charges are called anions. The process of ionization in a mass spectrometer involves the removal or addition of electrons to atoms or molecules, creating these charged particles.