The effect of ion structure on gas-phase ion transport properties

Abstract

Drift theory has been used with a simple interaction potential to predict the relative effects of structural parameters on the ion transport properties of polyatomic ions drifting in helium. Experimental data measured using a static drift tube for ions of dissimilar chemical composition are in accord with the qualitative predictions of theory, the spatial volume of the ion being the dominant factor on the ion transport properties. Differences in the mobilities of some of the structural isomers of C₂H₄O⁺ and C₂H₅O⁺ ions have been measured and rationalised in terms of their structural differences.