Problem: There are two different isotopes of bromine atoms. Under normal conditions, elemental bromine consists of Br2 molecules, and the mass of a Br2 molecule is the sum of the masses of the two atoms in the molecule. The mass spectrum of Br2 consists of three peaks: Mass (amu)  Relative Size157.8360.2569159.8340.4999161.8320.2431Calculate the abundance of the heavier isotope.

FREE Expert Solution
100% (457 ratings)
Solution BlurView Complete Written Solution
Problem Details
There are two different isotopes of bromine atoms. Under normal conditions, elemental bromine consists of Br2 molecules, and the mass of a Br2 molecule is the sum of the masses of the two atoms in the molecule. The mass spectrum of Br2 consists of three peaks:


 Mass (amu)  Relative Size
157.8360.2569
159.8340.4999
161.8320.2431


Calculate the abundance of the heavier isotope.

All Chemistry Practice Problems Mass Spectrometry Practice Problems
Q.The stable isotopes of iron are 54Fe, 56Fe, 57Fe, and 58Fe. The mass spectrum of iron looks like the following:Use the data on the mass spectrum to es...
Q.The mass spectrum of bromine (Br2) consists of three peaks with the following characteristics:How do you interpret these data?
Q.Boron trifluoride is used as a catalyst in the synthesis of organic compounds. When this compound is analyzed by mass spectrometry (see Tools of the L...
Q.The atomic mass of flourine is 18.998 amu and its mass spectrum shows a large peak at this mass. The atomic mass of chlorine is 35.45 amu, yet the mas...
See all problems in Mass Spectrometry

Frequently Asked Questions

What scientific concept do you need to know in order to solve this problem?

Our tutors have indicated that to solve this problem you will need to apply the Mass Spectrometry concept. If you need more Mass Spectrometry practice, you can also practice Mass Spectrometry practice problems.

What professor is this problem relevant for?

Based on our data, we think this problem is relevant for Professor Saltos' class at CITYTECH CUNY.