Mass Spectrometry:
Measuring the Building Blocks of Matter
(ID:380)
Outline
This fully interactive presentation will introduce young students to the scientific concepts associated with
the analytical technique of Mass Spectrometry:
 That all matter in our world is comprised of building blocks called atoms that have a unique weight
or mass, and that these atoms join together to form molecules;
 That when charged, molecules of different mass can be moved and separated from one another
using electric and magnetic fields;
 That unknown charged molecules can be detected and identified by their measured mass using a
Mass Spectrometer.
Further Details
This outreach aims to:
1. Stimulate enjoyment and enthusiasm for Science in all students.
2. Demonstrate that scientific ideas can be evaluated by means of information gathered from
observations and measurements.
3. Develop enquiring minds and a scientific approach to problem solving.
4. Relate the application of science to everyday life.
5. Encourage students to acquire relevant scientific knowledge and vocabulary to enable them to
participate in an increasingly scientific and technological society.
Location: On campus or onsite in school classroom or hall
Available in Welsh: In development
Onsite Equipment Required: Room of sufficient size for all students to be seated (on the floor or on chairs)
and space for activities for up to 10 students at a time; two tables for scientific equipment and experimental
apparatus; screen or whiteboard for PowerPoint presentation and, most importantly, lots of willing
volunteers!
To find out more
Please contact the activity organiser in the first instance:
Dr Ann Hunter, College of Medicine
[email protected]
Alternative contact if required: National Mass Spectrometry Facility
[email protected] 01792 295553
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 01792 295553
Visit: nmsf.swan.ac.uk
Post: EPSRC NMSF, Swansea University Medical School,
Singleton Park, Swansea SA2 8PP