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  Home > JCE Print > Journal of Chemical Education > Issues > 2007  > December  >
In the Laboratory
Illustrating the Concepts of Isotopes and Mass Spectrometry in Introductory Courses: A MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry Laboratory Experiment
Nancy Carter Dopke and Timothy Neal Lovett
Department of Chemistry, Mercer Univeristy, Macon, GA 31207
Cover
December 2007
Vol. 84 No. 12
p. 1968

Abstract
Mass spectrometry is a widely used and versatile tool for scientists in many different fields. Soft ionization techniques such as matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) allow for the analysis of biomolecules, polymers, and clusters. This article describes a MALDI mass spectrometry experiment designed for students in introductory courses that provides hands-on experience with research instrumentation and reinforces the course concepts of isotopes, molecular masses, and molecular formulas. The students prepare peptide samples for mass analysis and then collect and analyze mass spectral data. This experiment could easily be adapted to an instructor's available or preferred soft ionization technique.
Supplement
A student handout and instructor notes are available.
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Citation
Dopke, Nancy Carter; Lovett, Timothy Neal. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 1968.
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Keywords
Analytical Chemistry; Biochemistry; First-Year Undergraduate / General; Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives; Isotopes; Laboratory Instruction; Mass Spectrometry; Proteins / Peptides
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History
Created:
Last Updated:
10/25/2007
10/31/2007
 Caution! 
Experiments, laboratory exercises, lecture demonstrations, and other descriptions of the use of chemicals, apparatus, instruments, computers, and computer interfaces are presented in the Journal of Chemical Education as illustrative of new or improved ideas or concepts in chemistry instruction and are directed at qualified teachers. Although every effort is made to assure and encourage safe practices and safe use of chemicals, the Journal of Chemical Education cannot assume responsibility for uses made of its published materials. Many chemicals are hazardous. Precautions for the safe use of hazardous chemicals and directions for their proper disposal are described in the Material Safety Data Sheets and on the labels. We strongly urge all those planning to use materials from our pages to make choices and to develop procedures for laboratory and classroom safety in accordance with local needs and situations.
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