What is the primary function of a mass spectrometer?

The primary function of a mass spectrometer is to analyze the relative atomic mass by detecting ionized particles. In mass spectrometry, a sample is ionized, and the resulting ions are accelerated and directed through a magnetic or electric field. This process separates the ions based on their mass-to-charge ratio, allowing for the accurate determination of their relative masses. The data obtained provides valuable information about the molecular composition and structure of the sample, making mass spectrometry a powerful analytical tool in chemistry, biology, and other fields.

Other options are distinct techniques that do not pertain to mass spectrometry. Measuring temperature or determining boiling points are associated with thermodynamic properties, while calculating concentration typically involves methods such as titration or spectrophotometry. These functions do not involve measuring mass or analyzing ionized particles, which is the core purpose of a mass spectrometer.