MASS SPECTROMETRY
Explanation: Mass spectrometer separates
1. Mass spectrometers are used to
determine which of the following?
a) Composition in sample
b) Concentration of elements in sample
c) Relative mass of atoms
d) Properties of sample
Answer: c
Explanation: Mass spectrometers are used
to determine the relative mass of atoms and
molecules. Aston made the instrument more
accurate.
2. Who invented mass spectrometers?
a) J.J Thompson
b) Goldstein
c) Nikola Tesla
d) Aston
Answer: a
Explanation: J.J Thompson introduced mass
spectrometers. Aston modified the
instrument to make it more accurate.
3. In mass spectrometer, the sample that
has to be analysed is bombarded with
which of the following?
a) Protons
b) Electrons
c) Neutrons
d) Alpha particles
Answer: b
Explanation: In mass spectrometer, the
sample which is to be analysed is
bombarded with electrons. As a result, ions
are produced.
4. Mass spectrometer separates ions on the
basis of which of the following?
a) Mass
b) Charge
c) Molecular weight
d) Mass to charge ratio
Answer: d
ions on the basis of mass to charge ratio.
Most of the ions are singly charged. Hence,
the mass to charge ratio is equal to the
mass.
5. In mass spectrometer, the ions are
sorted out in which of the following
ways?
a) By accelerating them through electric
field
b) By accelerating them through
magnetic field
c) By accelerating them through electric
and magnetic field
d) By applying a high voltage
Answer: c
Explanation: In mass spectrometer, the ions
are sorted out by accelerating them through
an electric and magnetic field. A record of
number of different kinds of ions is called
mass spectrum.
6. No two molecules will be fragmented and
ionized in exactly the same manner.
a) True
b) False
Answer: a
Explanation: No two molecules will be
fragmented and ionized in exactly the same
manner. This is how different molecules are
identified in a complex mixture.
7. The procedure for mass spectroscopy
starts with which of the following
processes?
a) The sample is bombarded by electron
beam
b) The ions are separated by passing
them into electric and magnetic field
c) The sample is converted into gaseous
state
d) The ions are detected
Answer: c
Explanation: The procedure for mass
spectroscopy starts with converting the
sample into a gaseous state. This is done by
chemical processes.
8. In a mass spectrometer, the ion currents
are measured using which of the
following?
a) Scintillation counter
b) Ion counter
c) Electrometer tube
d) Electric fields
Answer: c
Explanation: The ion currents are measured
using a sensitive electrometer tube. The ions
reaching the collecting plate are measured.
9. Which of the following ions pass through
the slit and reach the collecting plate?
a) Negative ions of all masses
b) Positive ions of all masses
c) Negative ions of specific mass
d) Positive ions of specific mass
Answer: d
Explanation: Positive ions of specific mass
pass through the slit and reach the collecting
plate. These ions are measured.
10. Which of the following statements is not
true about mass spectrometry?
a) Impurities of masses different from
the one being analysed interferes with
the result
b) It has great sensitivity
c) It is suitable for data storage
d) It is suitable for library retrieval
Answer: a
Explanation: Impurities of masses different
from the one being analysed does not
interfere with the result in mass
spectroscopy. This is a major advantage of
this technique.
11. In mass spectrometer, the sample gas is
introduced into the highly evacuated
spectrometer tube and it is ionised by
electron beam.
a) True
b) False
Answer: a
Explanation: The sample gas is introduced
into the highly evacuated spectrometer tube
and it is ionised by an electron beam. The
sample has to be in a gaseous state.
COMPONENTS OF MASS SPECTROMETRY
1. Which of the following is not a
component of mass spectrometer?
a) Inlet system
b) Sweep generator
c) Ion transducer
d) Mass analyser
Answer: b
Explanation: Sweep generator is not a
component of a mass spectrometer. It is a
component of NMR spectrometer.
2. Which of the following can be introduced
into the ionization chamber directly?
a) Solid samples with low vapour
pressure
b) Solid samples with high vapour
pressure
c) Liquid samples with low density
d) Liquid samples with high density
Answer: a
Explanation: Solid samples with low vapour
pressure can be introduced into the
ionization chamber directly.
3. Inlet system is also known as which of
the following?
a) Initial system
b) Sample reservoir
c) Sample handling system
d) Element injection system
Answer: c
Explanation: Inlet system introduces the
sample into the ion source. Hence, it is called
a sample handling system.
4. Which of the following is normally done
to convert the sample into the gaseous
state?
a) Sample is pressurized
b) Chemical reactions are made to occur
c) Sample is heated
d) Sample is cooled
Answer: c
Explanation: The sample must always be in
the gaseous state. Hence, the liquid sample
must be heated before introducing them
into the ionization chamber.
5. Which of the following probes are used
for the introduction of the sample?
a) Silica
b) Quartz
c) Graphite
d) Silver
Answer: a
Explanation: Solid samples with low vapour
pressure are introduced into the entrance of
the chamber. They are introduced using
silica or platinum probe.
6. Which of the following is not a type of
ionisation?
a) Field ionisation
b) Spontaneous ionisation
c) Spark ionisation
d) Chemical ionization
Answer: b
Explanation: Spontaneous ionisation is not a
type of ionisation. In mass spectrometer,
ionisation is brought about by thermal or
electrical energy.
7. Mass analyser is similar to which of the
following in optical spectrometer?
a) Source
b) Monochromator
c) Detector
d) Sample
Answer: b
Explanation: Mass analyser is similar to
monochromator in an optical spectrometer.
It separates ions according to their
mass/charge ratio.
8. Which of the following is not one of the
types of mass analyser?
a) Magnetic sector analyser
b) Frequency sweep analyser
c) Double focussing spectrometer
d) Time of flight analyser
Answer: b
Explanation: Frequency sweep analyser is
not a type of mass analyser. There are many
devices available for mass analysis.
9. Which of the following is not a type of ion
detector used in mass spectrometers?
a) Electron multiplier
b) Flame emission detector
c) Faraday cup collector
d) Photographic plates
Answer: b
Explanation: Flame emission detector is not
a type of ion detector used in mass
spectrometers. Ion detectors produce a
current on the output side when there are
ions on the input side.
10. Which of the following is used to inject
liquid samples?
a) Hypodermic needle
b) Glass bulb
c) Capillary tube
d) Curvette
Answer: a have a low uptake rate. They also have low
Explanation: Liquid samples are injected cost and high efficiency.
through hypodermic needles. It is vaporized
14. In glow discharge ion source, the sample
at low pressure.
is atomised by which of the following
11. Under which of the following process?
temperatures is the ionisation chamber a) Evaporation
maintained? b) Sputtering
a) 100oC c) Heating
b) 200oC d) Annealing
c) 300oC
Answer: b
d) 400oC
Explanation: In glow discharge ion source,
Answer: b the sample is atomised by the process of
Explanation: The ionisation chamber is sputtering. It not only atomizes the sample
maintained at 200oC. It is also maintained at but also provides means by which these
low pressure. atoms are ionized.

12. Given below is the block diagram of mass MAGNETIC DEFLECTION MASS
spectrometer. Identify the unmarked SPECTROMETER
component.
1. Which of the following produces the
electron beam in magnetic deflection
mass spectrometer?
a) Tungsten filament
a) Inlet system b) Quartz rod
b) Ionisation chamber c) Silica
c) Vacuum system d) Rhodium filament
d) Ion transducer
Answer: a
Answer: d Explanation: Tungsten filament produces the
Explanation: The unmarked component is electron beam in magnetic deflection mass
ion transducer. It will give current at the spectrometer. The electrons are produced
output at its output side when ions are by the heated filament.
present on the input side.
2. In magnetic deflection mass
13. Which of the following is not a spectrometer, in which of the following
characteristic of nebulizers that are ways is acceleration applied to the
commonly used? direction of motion?
a) Low cost a) In random manner
b) Low uptake rate b) Parallel to it
c) High efficiency c) Perpendicular to it
d) High uptake rate d) Along it
Answer: d Answer: c
Explanation: Commonly used nebulizers Explanation: Acceleration in the mass
spectrometer, is applied perpendicular to
the direction of motion. The velocity of the
object remains constant.
3. Direct focussing is obtained by deflecting
the ion beam along a _________ trajectory
through the magnetic field.
a) 120o
b) 150o
c) 190o
d) 180o
Answer: d
Explanation: Direct focussing is obtained by
deflecting the ion beam along a
180o trajectory through a magnetic field. The
gap between the poles must be large
enough to contain the ion source.
4. Which of the following separate the ions
according to their mass-to-charge?
a) Ion source
b) Detector
c) Magnetic sector
d) Electric sector
Answer: c
Explanation: Magnetic sector will separate
the ions according to their mass-to-charge.
The magnet will decide the mass to charge
ratio.
5. Mattauch-Herzog geometry involves a
deflection of which of the following
radians in a radial electrostatic field
analyser?
a) √2Π
b) Π/2
c) Π/3√4
d) Π/4√2
Answer: d
Explanation: Mattauch-Herzog geometry
involves a deflection of Π/4√2 radians in a
radial electrostatic field analyser. It is
followed by a magnetic deflection of Π/2
radians.
6. Which of the following leads to the
limitation of resolution?
a) All ions do not have same energy
b) All ions do not have same charge
c) All ions are not of the same size
d) All ions do not have the same charge
Answer: a
Explanation: The resolution is limited as all
ions do not have the same energy. Hence,
the ions would not have the same velocity.
7. The electric sector field is not subject to
hysteresis.
a) True
b) False
Answer: a
Explanation: The electric sector field is not
subject to hysteresis. Hence, the relationship
between mass to charge ratio and
accelerating voltage is linear.
8. Which of the following components need
to be added in order to increase the
resolution?
a) Ion source
b) Detector
c) Magnetic sector
d) Electric sector
Answer: d
Explanation: Electric sector needs to be
added in order to increase the resolution.
This compensates for the decrease in
resolution due to varying velocities.
9. Which of the following is commonly
varied in magnetic deflection mass
spectrometer?
a) Electric sector
b) Magnetic fold strength
c) Magnetic constant
d) Electric constant
Answer: b
Explanation: Magnetic fold strength is
usually varied in magnetic deflection mass flight mass analyser is a type of mass
spectrometer. Electric sector is kept spectrometer.
constant.
2. Time of flight mass spectrometer has an
10. Nier-Johnson geometry involves a unlimited mass range.
deflection of which of the following a) True
radians in a radial electrostatic field b) False
analyser?
Answer: a
a) Π
Explanation: Time of flight mass
b) Π/2
spectrometer is a type of mass
c) Π/3
spectrometer. It has unlimited mass range.
d) Π/4
3. Which of the following is not an
Answer: b
advantage of mass spectrometer?
Explanation: Nier-Johnson geometry involves
a) Simple
a deflection of Π/2 radians in a radial
b) Rugged
electrostatic field analyser. A magnetic
c) High sensitivity
deflection of Π/3 radians follows the
d) Unlimited mass range
analyser.
Answer: c
11. An accuracy of 1 part in 102 has been
Explanation: Time of flight mass
obtained in precision mass
spectrometers have limited sensitivity and
measurements.
resolution. They are simple and rugged.
a) True
b) False 4. All the ions entering the tube have the
same kinetic energy.
Answer: b
a) True
Explanation: An accuracy of 1 part in 109 has
b) False
been obtained in precision mass
measurements. Spectrographs with Answer: a
photographic reading are used for analysis Explanation: Separation of ions occurs while
of solids. they are moving from the ion source to the
detector. All the ions entering the tube have
TIME OF FLIGHT MASS SPECTROMETER
the same kinetic energy.
1. Which of the following is not a
5. If all the ions have the same kinetic
component of the time of flight analyser
energy how are their masses related to
spectrometer?
their velocities?
a) Ion source
a) Mass and velocity are equal
b) Field free separation region
b) Mass and velocity are not related
c) Electron multiplication region
c) Mass and velocity are directly
d) Photo tube
proportional
Answer: d d) Mass and velocity are inversely
Explanation: Phototube is not a component proportional
of time of flight mass spectrometer. Time of
Answer: d
Explanation: If all the ions have the same
kinetic energy, mass and velocity are
inversely proportional. This is used in the
separation of ions.
6. Which of the following is true about time
of flight analyser spectrometers?
a) Lighter particles arrive at the detector
earlier
b) Heavier particle arrive at the detector
earlier
c) Lighter and heavier particles arrive
together at the detector
d) Lighter particles do not reach the
detector
Answer: a
Explanation: Lighter particles arrive at the
detector earlier than the heavier particles.
The time difference is used to separate the
electrons according to their mass.
7. In the time of flight mass spectrometer,
ions are formed by which of the following
methods?
a) Pulsed ionization method
b) Acceleration method
c) Dynamic method
d) Ion excitation method
Answer: a
Explanation: In the time of flight mass
spectrometer, ions are formed by pulsed
ionisation method. It is a type of mass
spectrometer.
8. The evacuated tube is also known as
which of the following?
a) Pulse tube
b) Detector tube
c) Drift tube
d) Acceleration tube
Answer: c
Explanation: The evacuated tube is also
known as a drift tube. The electrons move
from source to detector through the tube.
9. The current produced by ions arriving at
the collector necessitates the use of
which of the following?
a) Wide band amplifier
b) Narrow band amplifier
c) Wide band filter
d) Narrow band filter
Answer: a
Explanation: The current produced by ions
arriving at the collector has very short duration.
Hence, it necessitates the use of wide band
amplifier.
10. Which of the following is an ion optic
device in which ions pass through a
mirror and their flight is reversed?
a) Reversal device
b) Reflectron
c) Mirror arrangement
d) Separation chamber
Answer: b
Explanation: Reflectron is an ion optic device in
which ions pass through a mirror and their
flight is reversed. It is used in time of flight mass
spectrometer.
11. Which of the following statements about
mass spectrometers are not true?
a) Time of flight mass spectrometer has
the ability to record the entire mass
spectrum at a time
b) Time of flight mass spectrometers
have poor resolution
c) Conventional spectrometer detects
only one peak at a time
d) All spectrometers have the ability to
record the entire mass spectrum at a
time
Answer: d 4. The rf spectrometer contains a magnet.
Explanation: Conventional spectrometer detects a) True
only one peak at a time. Time of flight mass b) False
spectrometer has the ability to record the entire
Answer: b
mass spectrum at a time.
Explanation: Rf spectrometer does not contain a
RADIOFREQUENCY MASS SPECTROMETER magnet. Rf field is applied for this type of mass
spectrometer.
1. Which of the following is placed just
before the detector in a radiofrequency 5. The DC ion accelerating voltage is swept
mass spectrometer? from _________
a) Ion source a) 0 to 50 V
b) Potential energy selector b) 50 to 100 V
c) Ionisation chamber c) 200 to 300 V
d) Reflectron d) 50 to 250 V

Answer: b Answer: d
Explanation: A potential energy selector is Explanation: The DC ion accelerating voltage is
placed before the detector. It balances out the swept from 50 to 250 V. This is done twice per
energy of the ion beam. second.

2. Which of the following is applied in one 6. The resolution of the Bennet tube can be
or more stages where each stage is a improved by using which of the
series of three equally spaced parallel following?
grids? a) Sine wave rf signal
a) Ionisation field b) Square wave rf signal
b) Reflection c) Triangular wave rf signal
c) RF field d) Random signal
d) Acceleration
Answer: b
Answer: c Explanation: The resolution of the Bennet tube
Explanation: RF field is applied in one or more can be improved by using square wave rf signal.
stages. Each stage is a series of three equally Usually, sinusoidal wave signal is used.
spaced parallel grids.
7. In Bennet spectrometer, the rf voltage
3. The alternating voltage rf voltage is has a fixed frequency.
applied to which of the following? a) True
a) All grids b) False
b) Central grid
Answer: a
c) Alternate grids
Explanation: In Bennet spectrometer, the rf
d) None of the grids
voltage has a fixed frequency. It is modulated at
Answer: b 10 percent at 1kHz.
Explanation: The alternating voltage rf voltage is
applied to the central grid. All the other grids
are kept at ground potential.
 8. The spurious lines can be reduced to a Answer: b
minimum by using which of the Explanation: The resolving power of Bennet
following? type spectrometer is primarily based on the
a) Single stage tube difference between the individual rf accelerating
b) Two stage tube stages.
c) Three stage tube
QUADRUPOLE MASS SPECTROMETER
d) Reflectron
1. Which of the following is not a feature of
Answer: c
quadrupole mass spectrometer?
Explanation: The spurious lines can be reduced
a) Low cost
to a minimum by using three stage tubes. Two
b) Light weight
stage tubes tend to produce spurious lines.
c) Low speed electronic scanning
9. Which of the following is the d) Simple in construction
disadvantage of using three stage tubes?
Answer: c
a) Reduced resolution
Explanation: In quadrupole mass spectrometer,
b) Bulky construction
electronic scanning takes place. The scanning
c) Complex
takes place at high speed.
d) Heavy
2. Which of the following is not a
Answer: a
component of quadrupole mass filter?
Explanation: The spurious lines can be reduced
a) Electrodes
to a minimum by using three stage tubes. This
b) Choke
results in reduced resolving power.
c) DC potential
10. Which of the following is not the feature d) Detector
of Bennet type spectrometer?
Answer: d
a) Lightweight
Explanation: Detector is not a part of the filter.
b) Simple
The filter uses DC potential.
c) Absence of spurious lines
d) Moderate resolution 3. The mass selection scheme uses a dc
potential and not a radio frequency
Answer: c
potential.
Explanation: Absence of spurious lines is not a
a) True
feature of Bennet type spectrometer. Spurious
b) False
lines can be reduced by adding new features.
Answer: b
11. The resolving power of Bennet type
Explanation: The mass selection scheme uses a
spectrometer is primarily based on which
dc potential. It also uses radio frequency
of the following?
potential.
a) Distance between detector and
reflectron 4. If to one pair of electrodes one potential
b) Difference between the individual rf with one sign is applied, which of the
accelerating stages following is applied to the other pair of
c) Length of the drift tube electrodes?
d) Laser beam used a) Same potential with same sign
 b) Different potential with same sign
c) Different potential with different sign
d) Same potential with different sign
Answer: d
Explanation: If to one pair of electrodes one
potential with one sign is applied, same
potential with a different sign is applied to
the opposite electrodes.
5. Which of the following is the heart of
quadrupole instrument?
a) Electrodes
b) Choke
c) DC potential
d) Detector
Answer: a
Explanation: Electrodes are the heart of
quadrupole instrument. Opposite electrodes
are electrically connected.
6. Which of the following has to be done to
increase the resolution of the
quadrupole mass spectrometer?
a) Increasing distance between detector
and reflectron
b) Increasing difference between the
individual rf accelerating stages
c) Increasing the length of the drift tube
d) Increasing the rod length of the
electrode
Answer: d
Explanation: The resolution depends upon the
electrode. The length of the electrode has to be
increased for increasing the resolution.
7. Which of the following does not affect
the resolution of the instrument?
a) Changing length of electrode
b) Changing slope of scan line
c) Quality of machining of the rods
d) Changing length of drift tube
Answer: d
Explanation: Changing length of drift tube does
not affect the resolution of the instrument.
Increase in resolution results in an increase in
the number of ions reaching the detector.
8. In cases where differentiation is required
between very similar substances, which
of the following techniques making use
of quadrupole principle is preferred?
a) Evaporation mass spectrometry
b) Pyrolysis mass spectrometry
c) Plasma mass spectrometry
d) Trapped ion mass spectrometry
Answer: b
Explanation: In cases where differentiation is
required between very similar substances,
pyrolysis mass spectrometry is used. The
sample is usually solid or involatile liquid in this
case.
9. In pyrolysis spectrometry, heating is
done until which of the following is
reached?
a) Curie point
b) Boiling point
c) Until production of superheated
vapour
d) Until 100oC
Answer: a
Explanation: In pyrolysis spectrometry, heating
is done until curie point is reached. At this point,
magnetic permeability drops abruptly.
10. Which of the following is used to cool the
ion source?
a) Liquid sodium shield
b) Liquid nitrogen shield
c) Water
d) Freon
Answer: b
Explanation: Liquid nitrogen cooled shield is
used to cool the ion source. It reduces source
contamination.
 11. In quadrupole mass spectrometer, the
ratio u/v is mass dependent, where ‘u’ is
the DC voltage and ‘v’ is the peak
amplitude.
a) True
b) False
Answer: b
Explanation: In quadrupole mass spectrometer,
the ratio u/v is mass independent, where ‘u’ is
the DC voltage and ‘v’ is the peak amplitude.
This ratio is kept constant.
12. When a value of q is kept constant, the
value of m/e is proportional to which of
the following when ‘m’ is the mass
number, ‘e’ is the electric charge, ‘u’ is the
DC potential, ‘v’ is the peak amplitude
and ‘f’ is the frequency?
a) u/v ratio
b) u
c) v
d) f
Answer: c
Explanation: When a value of q is kept constant,
the value of m/e is proportional to ‘v’. By
variation of rf amplitude the m/e ratio varies.
ION TRANSDUCERS OR DETECTORS
1. Which of the following is not an ion
transducer or detector?
a) Faraday cup collector
b) Channeltron
c) Micro-channel plate
d) Flame ionization detector
Answer: d
Explanation: Flame ionization detector is not an
ion transducer. It is a detector used in
chromatography.
2. Which of the following is similar to photo
multiplier transducer?
a) Faraday cup collector
b) Channeltron
c) Micro-channel plate
d) Electron multiplier transducer
Answer: d
Explanation: Electron multiplier transducer is
similar to photo multiplier transducer. The
difference is that its primary cathode detects
ions rather than photons.
3. Which of the following is used in places
where ion currents are very low?
a) Faraday cup collector
b) Channeltron
c) Micro-channel plate
d) Electron multiplier transducer
Answer: d
Explanation: Electron multiplier transducer is
used in places where ion currents are very low.
Its primary cathode detects ions.
4. Discrete type electron multiplier
transducers can provide current gain
upto which of the following?
a) 102
b) 105
c) 107
d) 1011
Answer: c
Explanation: Discrete type electron multiplier
transducers can provide current gain up to 102.
Up to 20 dynodes need to be used for this
purpose.
5. Continuous dynode electron multiplier
transducer is a trumpet shaped device
made with which of the following?
a) Glass doped with lead
b) Steel doped with bronze
c) Phosphor bronze doped with iron
d) Iron doped with calcium
Answer: a
Explanation: Continuous dynode electron
multiplier transducer is a trumpet shaped
device made of glass. It is heavily doped with
lead.
6. The potential maintained across the
continuous dynode multiplier transducer
is which of the following?
a) 1 to 5kV
b) 5 to 10kV
c) 2.5 to 6.2kV
d) 1.8 to 2kV
Answer: d
Explanation: The potential maintained across
the continuous dynode multiplier transducer is
1.8 to 2kV. Electrons cascade down the tube.
7. Which of the following are not the
characteristics of an electron multiplier
transducer?
a) Rugged
b) Reliable
c) Microsecond of response time
required
d) High current gain
Answer: c
Explanation: Electron multiplier transducer
requires the only nanosecond of response time.
It provides a high current gain.
8. Which of the following are true about
dynodes used in discrete dynode
electron multiplier?
a) The dynodes are all kept at same
voltage
b) Successive dynodes are held at lower
potential
c) Successive dynodes are held at higher
potential
d) All dynodes are held at very low
potential
Answer: c
Explanation: In discrete dynode electron
multiplier, successive dynodes are held at
higher potential. Dynodes are metal plates with
copper or beryllium surfaces.
9. In which of the following detectors, the
collector is placed in an inclined manner?
a) Faraday cup collector
b) Channeltron
c) Micro-channel plate
d) Electron multiplier transducer
Answer: a
Explanation: The collector is placed in an
inclined manner in a faraday cup collector. This
is to reflect the ions away from the entrance of
the cup.
10. Which of the following is the least
sensitive ion detector?
a) Faraday cup collector
b) Channeltron
c) Micro-channel plate
d) Electron multiplier transducer
Answer: a
Explanation: Faraday cup collector is the least
sensitive ion detector. It is used in places where
great sensitivity is not required.
11. Photographic plates are coated with
which of the following?
a) Lead
b) Quartz
c) Silver bromide
d) Mercuric sulphate
Answer: c
Explanation: Photographic plates are coated
with silver bromide. These are sensitive to
energetic ions.
12. Which of the following detectors are well
suited for spark source instruments?
a) Faraday cup collector
b) Photographic plates
c) Micro-channel plate
d) Electron multiplier transducer
Answer: b 2. Which of the following isotope is NMR
Explanation: Photographic plates are well suited inactive?
for spark source instruments. It has great *
sensitivity.
1/1
13. Photographic plates have greater 1H
sensitivity and resolution than electron 13C
multipliers. 15N
a) True 12C
b) False

Answer: a 3. Which of the following isotope is NMR

Explanation: Photographic plates have greater inactive?
sensitivity and resolution than electron *
multipliers. This is because they integrate the 1/1
ion signals over a period of time.
1H
14. Which of the following detectors consist 13C
of an array of glass capillaries? 31P
a) Faraday cup collector 16O
b) Photographic plates
c) Micro-channel plate
4. The chemical shift of an atomic nucleus
d) Electron multiplier transducer
depends on its molecular environment and is
Answer: b different for each atom in a protein molecule.
Explanation: Photographic plates can be used *
for ions with short life time. This is because they 0/1
integrate the ion signal over a period of time.
False
NUCLEAR MAGNETIC RESONANCE  
SPECTROSCOPY True

Correct answer

1. Which of the following is a technique for the True

determination of the three-dimensional structure

of a protein? 5. Which of the following is not a limitation of
* NMR spectroscopy?
1/1 *
Gas chromatography 0/1
Mass spectroscopy
Mostly used for small proteins (< 30 kDa)
Radiotherapy
NMR spectroscopy  
Can only be used for proteins that are stable in
  solution
Problem arises with high frequencies (1000 MHz)
Cannot detect dynamic motion within proteins
Correct answer IR radiation
Radio frequency radiation
Cannot detect dynamic motion within proteins
 
6. What are the different frequencies obtained Microwaves
as NMR peaks called?
10. NMR spectrometer provides ____________
*
and _____________ method of determining
0/1
structure in soluble chemical compounds.
Chemical peaks *
Biological shifts
1/1
Physical shifts
  Accurate, destructive
Chemical shifts Accurate, non-destructive
 
Correct answer
Inaccurate, destructive
Chemical shifts Inaccurate, non-destructive

11. NMR spectroscopy indicates the chemical

7. Which of the following organic compound with nature of the _______ and spatial positions
molecular formula C3H C12 exhibits only one of _______.
signal in the IH NMR spectrum?
*
*
0/1
1/1
Electrons, Protons
2, 2-dichloropropane
Neutrons, electrons
  Nuclei, electrons
1, 2-dichloropropane  
1, 3-dichloropropane
Nuclei, neighboring nuclei
1, 1-dichloropropane
Correct answer
8. The distance between the centers of the
Nuclei, neighboring nuclei
peaks of doublet is called as?
* 12. In NMR spectroscopy, the spinning nuclei in
1/1 strong magnetic field must be irradiated by
which of the following?
Coupling constant
*
 
Spin constant 0/1
Spin-spin coupling
Perpendicular and stronger field
Chemical shift
 
Perpendicular and weaker field
9. NMR is the study of absorption of Parallel and stronger field
__________ by nuclei in a magnetic field? Parallel and weaker field

* Correct answer
1/1 Perpendicular and weaker field
Radioactive radiation
 Excite an atom
13. Interaction between matter and Vibrate an atom
electromagnetic radiation can be observed by Vibrate a molecule
subjecting a substance to magnetic fields in Affect the nuclear spin of an atom
which of the following manner?

*
0/1

Both fields should be stationary 17. Nuclei having either the number of protons
Both fields should be varying or neutrons as odd have _______ spin.
One field should be stationary and the other should
*
be varying
It must be subjected to only one field 0/1
  Integral spin
Correct answer
Half integral spin
Zero spin
One field should be stationary and the other should Positive spin
be varying
 
14. When energy is absorbed by the sample, the Correct answer
absorption can be observed as a change in Half integral spin
signal developed by which of the following
components? 18. The difference between the field necessary
* for resonance in the sample and in some
1/1 arbitrary chosen compound is which of the
following?
Amplifier
Photodetector *
GM counter 1/1
Radiofrequency detector
Field shift
Matrix effects
15. Which of the following are considered to be Chemical shift
the lowest form of Electromagnetic radiation?  
Resonance shift
*
1/1

IR radiation 19. Chemical shift allows a chemist to obtain the

Micro waves idea of how atoms are joined together.
UV radiation *
Radio waves
1/1

True
16. The amount of energy available in radio  
frequency radiation is sufficient for which of the False
following?
 
*
1/1
21. How many signals does the aldehyde Frequency of unknown group of protons
Frequency of TMS
(CH3)3CCH2CHO have in 1H NMR and 13C
Operating frequency of the instrument
NMR spectra? All of the above
*  
0/1
Correct answer
five 1H signals and six 13C signals Operating frequency of the instrument
 
three 1H signals and four 13C signals
five 1H signals and four 13C signals
three 1H signals and six 13C signals

Correct answer
three 1H signals and four 13C signals 1. NMR spectroscopy is used for
determining structure in which of the
following materials?
22. Which of the compounds below is used as a a) Radioactive materials
standard in proton NMR and carbon-13 NMR? b) Insoluble chemical compounds
c) Liquids
*
d) Gases
0/1
Answer: c
TMS
Explanation: NMR spectroscopy is used for
C6H6
determining structure in liquids. It is also used
CDCl3
for determining the structure in soluble
D2O
chemical compounds.
 
12. If the number of protons or neutrons is
Correct answer
even the spin of the nucleus will be which
TMS of the following?
a) Integral spin
23. The nuclei with a spin quantum number
b) Half integral spin
greater than _______ can exhibit the NMR c) Zero spin
phenomenon. d) Positive spin
*
Answer: c
1/1 Explanation: If the number of protons or
0 neutrons is even the spin of the nucleus will be
  zero. Examples are C12 and O16.
5 13. Elementary particles such as electrons
10
and nucleus have the property of spin.
-5
a) True
b) False
24. Which of the following is inversely Answer: a
proportional to the chemical shifts positions (δ)? Explanation: Elementary particles such as
* electrons and nucleus have the property of
0/1
spin. They are known to behave as if they rotate c) Slowly varying scan voltage
about an axis. d) Rapidly varying scan voltage

TYPES OF NMR SPECTROMETERS Answer: c

Explanation: In wideline NMR spectrometers,
1. Which of the following is not a type of
slowly varying scan voltage has to be supplied
NMR spectrometer?
to the electromagnet. This is injected using a
a) Minimal type
regulator.
b) Maximal type
c) Multipurpose type 5. Which among the following NMR
d) Wideline type spectrometer is the more diverse
spectrometer?
Answer: b
a) Minimal type
Explanation: Maximal type is not a type of NMR
b) Maximal type
spectrometer. Minimal type, Multipurpose type
c) Multipurpose type
and Wideline type are types of NMR
d) Wideline type
spectrometer.
Answer: c
2. Which of the following NMR
Explanation: Multipurpose type NMR
spectrometers have stressed reliability
spectrometer is more diverse. These
and ease of operation?
instruments are designed mainly for research.
a) Minimal type
b) Maximal type
c) Multipurpose type 6. Permanent magnet cannot be used in
d) Wideline type wideline type NMR spectrometer.
a) True
Answer: a
b) False
Explanation: Minimal type has stressed the
reliability and ease of operation. It uses a
permanent magnet. Answer: b
Explanation: Permanent magnet can be used in
3. Which of the following type of NMR wideline type NMR spectrometer. Compact,
spectrometer uses a frequency light-weight electromagnet can also be used.
synthesizer to generate RF fields?
a) Minimal type
b) Maximal type 7. Which of the following NMR
c) Multipurpose type spectrometer emphasises on high
d) Wideline type performance versatility with cost being a
secondary consideration?
Answer: d a) Minimal type
Explanation: Wideline type NMR spectrometer b) Maximal type
uses a frequency synthesizer to generate RF c) Multipurpose type
fields. It is a type of continuous wave NMR d) Wideline type
spectrometer.

4. In wideline NMR spectrometers, which of Answer: c

the following has to be supplied to the Explanation: Multipurpose type is mainly used
electromagnet? for research. Hence, it emphasises on high
a) Slowly varying low voltage performance versatility with cost being a
b) Rapidly varying low voltage secondary consideration.
 8. Which of the following NMR c) Sample probe
spectrometer does not require a power d) Sweep generator
supply and cooling system?
a) Minimal type
Answer: b
b) Maximal type
Explanation: A magnet is used to separate the
c) Multipurpose type
nuclear spin energy states. Permanent magnet
e) Wideline type
or electromagnets can be used.

Answer: a
Explanation: Minimal type NMR spectrometer
uses a permanent magnet. Hence, it does not
require a power supply and cooling system.
9. Minimal type of NMR spectrometer is
inexpensive.
a) True
b) False
Answer: a
Explanation: Minimal type of NMR spectrometer
is inexpensive. It uses a permanent magnet and
does not require a power supply.
10. Which of the following is used as a
coolant for magnets in continuous-wave
NMR spectrometer?
a) Water
b) Liquid He
c) Liquid Na
d) Heavy water
Answer: a
Explanation: Water is used as a coolant for
magnets in continuous-wave NMR
spectrometer. Liquid He is used for FT-NMR
spectrometers.
CONTINUOUS WAVE NMR SPECTROSCOPY
1. Which of the following components are
used to separate the nuclear spin energy
states?
a) RF channels
b) Magnet
2. In frequency sweep method, which of the
following parameters are varied
continuously?
a) Magnetic field
b) RF signal
c) Sample concentration
d) Amplification factor
Answer: b
Explanation: In frequency sweep method,
magnetic field is held constant. RF signal is
swept or varied continuously.
3. In field sweep method, which of the
following parameters are varied
continuously?
a) Magnetic field
b) RF signal
c) Sample concentration
d) Amplification factor
Answer: a
Explanation: In frequency sweep method, RF
signal is held constant. Magnetic field is swept
or varied continuously.
4. Which of the following statements are
not true about permanent magnets?
a) They are simple
b) They are inexpensive
c) They don’t require shielding
d) They don’t require power supply
Answer: c
Explanation: Permanent magnets are simple
and inexpensive. But, permanent magnets 8. The sample is contained in which of the
require extensive shielding. following components?
a) Flask
b) Capillary tube
5. Which of the following is not true of
c) Curvette
electromagnets?
d) Bore glass tube
a) They are expensive
b) They require a power supply
c) They don’t require a cooling system Answer: d
d) They don’t require extensive shielding Explanation: The sample is contained in a bore
glass tube. It should be cylindrical and thin-
walled.
Answer: c
Explanation: Electromagnets require a power
supply. They also require cooling systems. 9. The single coil probe supplies the RF
radiation to the sample and also serves
as a part of which of the following
6. For high resolution work the magnetic
circuits?
field over the entire sample volume must
a) RF channels
be maintained uniform in space and
b) Magnet
time.
c) Detector
a) True
d) Sweep generator
b) False

Answer: c
Answer: a
Explanation: The single coil probe supplies the
Explanation: For high resolution work the
RF radiation to the sample and also serves as a
magnetic field over the entire sample volume
part of the detector circuit. It has only one coil.
must be maintained uniform in space and time.
To do this all the components must be kept in
specified conditions. 10. Nuclear induction probes’ one coil is
used for signal detection. What is the
function of the other coil?
7. Which of the following must not be done
a) Sample irradiation
to maintain the magnetic field over the
b) Magnet
sample uniform in space and time?
c) Detector
a) Large pole pieces need to be used
d) Sweep generator
b) Pole faces must be polished
c) Wide pole gap must be present
d) Magnets can be permanent or Answer: a
electromagnet Explanation: Crossed coil probes are also called
nuclear induction probes. One coil is used for
irradiating the sample. The other coil is
Answer: c
mounted orthogonally for signal detection.
Explanation: Narrow pole gap must be present
to maintain the magnetic field over the sample
uniform in space and time. The pole faces must 11. Given below is the diagram of Cw NMR
be polished to optical tolerances. spectrometer. Identify the unmarked
component.
 c) Generator
d) Superconducting solenoids

Answer: d
Explanation: Superconducting solenoids can be
used instead of magnets to produce the
magnetic field. The magnet must be stable and
a) Recorder homogeneous.
b) RF channel 14. How is the inhomogeneity of magnetic
c) Receiver fields compensated?
d) Sweep generator
a) With large magnetic fields
b) With small magnetic fields
Answer: d c) By using two or more magnets
Explanation: The unmarked component is d) By providing required insulation
sweep generator. Either field or frequency can
Answer: b
be swept.
Explanation: The magnet must be stable and
11. The voltage generated by the receiver homogeneous. The inhomogeneity of magnetic
coil is small and it must be amplified. fields is compensated with small magnetic
a) True fields.
b) False
FOURIER TRANSFORM NMR SPECTROSCOPY
Answer: a
Explanation: The voltage generated by the
receiver coil is small and it must be amplified. It 1. Fourier transform NMR spectrometer
is them fed to the recorder or oscilloscope. allows NMR transitions to be observed
simultaneously.
12. The amplification required for a) True
continuous-wave NMR is of the order of b) False
which of the following?
a) 101
Answer: a
b) 102 Explanation: Fourier transform NMR
c) 103 spectrometer is a type of NMR spectrometer. It
d) 105 allows samples to be observed simultaneously
instead of serially.
Answer: d
Explanation: The amplification required for
continuous-wave NMR is of the order of 105. The 2. Fourier transform NMR spectrometer has
spectrum can be recorded after amplification. which of the following characteristics?
a) Increased sensitivity, long time to
13. Which of the following can be used obtain data
instead of magnets to produce the b) Decreased sensitivity, long time to
magnetic field? obtain data
a) Inductor c) Increased sensitivity, reduced time to
b) Motor obtain data
 d) Decreased sensitivity, reduced time to NMR spectrometer is that the excitation is
obtain data inefficient. Only a narrow band of frequencies
are contributing to the signal at a time.
Answer: c
Explanation: Fourier transform NMR 6. Which of the following must be done to
spectrometer has increased sensitivity. It takes improve sensitivity?
less time to obtain NMR data. a) Frequency sweep mode must be
preferred
b) Field sweep mode must be preferred
3. Which of the following cannot be done
c) Single channel excitation must be
due to the multiplex advantage?
preferred
a) Repetitive signals can be summed
d) Multichannel excitation must be
b) Repetitive signals can be averaged
preferred
c) Increases signal to noise ratio
d) Decreases signal to noise ratio
Answer: d
Explanation: Sweep techniques have less
Answer: d
sensitivity. To improve sensitivity, multichannel
Explanation: The multiplexing advantage allows
excitation must be preferred.
improvement of the signal to noise ratio. It also
allows repetitive signals to be summed and
averaged. 7. Which of the following is the
disadvantage of multichannel excitation?
a) Low sensitivity
4. Two coils are necessary for Fourier
b) Low resolution
transform NMR spectroscopy.
c) Small number of frequencies is present
a) True
d) Uneconomical
b) False

Answer: d
Answer: b
Explanation: Large number of frequencies is
Explanation: Only one coil is necessary for
present in multichannel excitation. This is
Fourier transform NMR spectroscopy. The coil
uneconomical since a receiver is required for
serves as both antenna for transmitting and
each channel.
receiving RF radiation.

8. How can the need for an array of narrow-

5. Which of the following is the
band filters and detectors be eliminated?
disadvantage of conventional mode of
a) By using multi-channel excitation
spectrometer or continuous-wave NMR
b) By using a detector for each frequency
spectrometer?
c) By reducing the number of detectors
a) They are unstable
d) By using Fourier transform
b) Maintenance is difficult
c) High operating cost
d) Excitation is inefficient Answer: d
Explanation: Fourier transform plays the role of
a multichannel receiver. Hence, the need for
Answer: d
array of narrow-band filters can be eliminated
Explanation: The disadvantage of conventional
mode of a spectrometer or continuous-wave
 9. Fourier transform can be accomplished
by using which of the following
components?
a) Spin decoder
b) Detector
c) Spectrum analyser
d) Oscilloscope
Answer: c
Explanation: Fourier transform can be
accomplished by using a spectrum analyser.
Any complex waveform can be converted to
frequencies using Fourier transform.
10. A 15.4 MHz crystal generates the
_________ resonance frequency.
a) Hydrogen
b) Deuterium
c) Tritium
d) Helium
Answer: b
Explanation: A 15.4 MHz crystal generates the
deuterium resonance frequency. This
resonance signal is used to lock the magnetic
signal to clock frequency.
SENSITIVITY ENHANCEMENT FOR NMR
SPECTROSCOPY
1. Sensitivity is the ratio of peak signal
amplitude to which of the following?
a) Time
b) Rms noise
c) Average noise
d) Peak-to-peak noise
Answer: b
Explanation: Sensitivity is the ratio of peak
signal amplitude to rms noise. It is a measure of
the ability of an instrument to differentiate
signal from surrounding noise.
2. Which of the following is not an
operating technique for sensitivity
enhancement?
a) Optimization of sample volume
b) Optimization of instrumental
parameters
c) Optimization of noise
d) Time averaging
Answer: c
Explanation: There are only three operating
techniques for sensitivity enhancement.
Optimization of noise is not an operating
technique for sensitivity enhancement.
3. Which of the following techniques do not
enhance sensitivity by a factor of 10 at
normal operating conditions?
a) Optimization of sample volume
b) Optimization of instrumental
parameters
c) Optimization of noise
d) Time averaging
Answer: d
Explanation: Time averaging techniques does
not enhance sensitivity by a factor of 10. The
other two techniques enhance sensitivity by a
factor of 10 at normal operating conditions.
4. The most common spherical cells have
which of the following dimensions?
a) 4mm diameter
b) 40mm diameter
c) 8mm diameter
d) 80mm diameter
Answer: a
Explanation: The most common spherical cells
have 4mm diameter. A 1mm capillary cell is
centred along the axis of the coil.
5. Better sensitivity with good resolution
can be achieved by concentrating the
 sample inside which of the following?
a) Sample cell
b) Micro cell
c) Sample tube
d) Cylindrical tube
Answer: b
Explanation: Better sensitivity with good
resolution can be achieved by concentrating the
sample inside a specially designed NMR
microcell. It could be a spherical cell or a
capillary cell.
6. Frequency spectrum of noise occupies a
band that is _________ the signal
spectrum. Choose the most appropriate
option.
a) Narrow than
b) Wider than
c) Different from
d) Same as
Answer: b
Explanation: Frequency spectrum of noise
occupies a band that is wider than the signal
spectrum. Filters operate on this concept.
7. Suppression of frequencies which
contain no signal does which of the
following?
a) Increases S/N ratio
b) Decreases S/N ratio
c) S/N ratio is kept constant
d) S/N ratio becomes 1
Answer: a
Explanation: Suppression of frequencies which
contain no signal increases S/N ratio. The noise
decreases.
8. The amplitude of the NMR signal caused
by the absorption of RF energy at the
radio frequency does not depend upon
the power of the RF energy applied.
a) True
b) False
Answer: b
Explanation: The amplitude of the NMR signal
caused by the absorption of RF energy at the
radio frequency depends on the power of the
RF energy applied. It also depends on the sweep
rate selected.
9. Which of the following is not involved in
signal averaging?
a) A system to repeatedly scan the
spectral region of interest
b) Some storage device to store
information
c) A system to coherently add individual
spectra
d) Sweep generator
Answer: d
Explanation: Sweep generator is not involved in
signal averaging. This is usually accomplished
using a small computer.
10. In order to have a long measuring time
for increasing sensitivity, it is better to
have several fast scans than a single slow
scan.
a) True
b) False
Answer: a
Explanation: In order to have a long measuring
time for increasing sensitivity, it is better to have
several fast scans than a single slow scan. The
sensitivity increases by the square root of a
number of scans.
11. In Spin Decoupler, the output of the DC
amplifier is applied to which of the
following to control the power supplied
to the oven heaters?
a) Power diode
 b) Power transistor
c) Power MOSFET
d) Power IGBT

Answer: b
Explanation: In Spin Decoupler, the output of
the DC amplifier is applied to the power
transistor to control the power supplied to the
oven heaters. The temperature is maintained at
plus or minus 1oC.

12. In Spin Decoupler, the difference

frequency circuit provides a means of
mixing two signals and a filter to recover
which of the following?
a) Low-frequency component
b) High-frequency component
c) Low-voltage component
d) High-voltage component

Answer: a
Explanation: In Spin Decoupler, the difference
frequency circuit provides a means of mixing
two signals and a filter to recover the low-
frequency component. It is included to provide
a read-out frequency.