Question

Given there are $3$ isotopes of hydrogen ${(}^{1}H{,}^{2}H$ and ${}^{3}H$) and $2$ isotopes of oxygen ${(}^{15}O$ and ${}^{16}O)$, how many peaks would be expected on a mass spectrum for the hydronium ion, $H_3{O}^{+}$?

• A. $6$
• B. $7$
• C. $8$
• D. $9$

Answer 1

The correct option is C $8$

Peaks would be expected on a mass spectrum for different masses of compound.

For hydronium ion production by isotope of oxygen $O^{15},O^{16}$ and isotope of hydrogen $H^1,H^2,H^3$ there are 8 different masses of hydronium ion produced,so 8 peaks are generated on mass spectrum.