Mass Spectrometry: A MASSive Molecule Decoder

Mass Spectrometry is a powerful tool that helps scientists figure out what things are made of, down to their tiniest particles. With this technique, samples can be separated based on their mass-to-charge ratio to figure out mass, basic building blocks, and composition of a chemical compound. As a scientist’s best friend, mass spectrometry has been used to answer life’s important questions, such as looking for signs of life on Mars, monitoring food for dangerous chemicals, identifying diseases, and finding clues from crime scenes. In this program, students will learn how mass spectrometry works and have a chance to try it themselves!