Field Ionization

Field ionization is a process used in physics and chemistry to remove ions from gas molecules using an intense electric field. When a strong electric field is applied, it disturbs the electrons in atoms, allowing them to escape and ionize the atom. This is often used in mass spectrometry, a technique for analyzing chemical compounds by measuring the mass of their ions. By understanding how molecules ionize, scientists can identify and quantify various substances, aiding research in fields like chemistry, biology, and environmental science.