What function does the mass analyzer perform in a mass spectrometer?

In a mass spectrometer, the mass analyzer plays a crucial role by separating ions based on their mass-to-charge (m/z) ratio. This separation is fundamental to the mass spectrometry process because it allows for the identification and quantification of different compounds within a sample. The mass analyzer sorts the ions after they have been ionized and accelerated, directing them into a detector based on their unique m/z values.

This functionality is critical because it enables the mass spectrometer to generate a mass spectrum, which provides information about the molecular weight and structure of the compounds present in the sample. Without this separation, the resulting data would be a mixture of signals that cannot be resolved or analyzed effectively, making the mass analyzer a key component in obtaining accurate and meaningful analytical results in mass spectrometry.