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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is NOT expected to be a major peak in the mass spectrum for the given molecule?
A
43 amu
B
165 amu
C
91 amu
D
184
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the molecular structure of the given compound. The structure shows a benzene ring attached to a two-carbon chain with a chlorine atom and a carbonyl group (C=O).
Calculate the molecular weight of the compound. Add the atomic masses of all the atoms in the molecule: C9H9ClO. Use the approximate atomic masses: C=12, H=1, Cl=35.5, O=16.
Consider common fragmentation patterns in mass spectrometry. The benzyl cation (C7H7+) is a common fragment with a mass of 91 amu, and the loss of a chlorine atom (Cl) from the molecular ion is also common.
Evaluate the given mass values (43 amu, 91 amu, 165 amu, 184 amu) against the calculated molecular weight and common fragments. Determine which mass is not a typical fragment or the molecular ion.
Conclude that 165 amu is not expected to be a major peak, as it does not correspond to the molecular ion or a common fragment of the given structure.