WHAT IT IS
Electric Sector Radius – Defines the curvature of the ion path in the electric sector. It is determined by the voltage applied and the energy of the incoming ions.
Electric Sector Angle – Specifies the degree of ion deflection ensuring effective separation of ions with different energy levels.
These parameters play a key role in controlling ion trajectories, optimizing mass analysis, and improving spectral accuracy.
HOW IT WORKS
Ion Deflection by Electric Field: Ions pass between two charged plates, experiencing a force that alters their trajectory.
Energy-Based Separation: The degree of deflection depends on an ion’s kinetic energy and charge. Faster-moving ions are deflected less, while slower ions are deflected more.
Energy Filtering: The electric sector removes ions with excess energy variations, ensuring only ions with the correct energy range reach the detector.
IMPACT ON PERFORMANCE
Higher Accuracy: Energy filtering improves mass accuracy by removing unwanted ion variations.
Better Signal Quality: Reduces background noise and improves spectral clarity.
Enhanced Stability: Ensures consistent ion trajectories, leading to reproducible measurements.
Improved Mass Resolution: Works with the magnetic sector in double-focusing instruments to enhance separation capabilities.
CHALLENGES AND LIMITATIONS
Complex Calibration: Requires precise voltage control to maintain optimal ion separation.
Space Requirements: Larger radii increase instrument size and complexity.
Potential Ion Loss: Poor optimization can result in reduced ion transmission, affecting overall sensitivity.