Objective:

To highlight a historical image related to mass spectrometry.

Approach:

• Historical Context: The article features a 1948 photo of a NIST staff member operating an early mass spectrometer.
• Current Relevance: It discusses the NIST mass spectral library, noted as possibly the world’s most widely-used database for identifying unknown organic compounds.
• Library Update: The article mentions a significant update to the NIST mass spectral library released on June 6, 2017.

Key Findings:

• The NIST mass spectral library is a key resource for identifying organic compounds.
• A major update to the library was released in 2017.

Interpretation:

Conclusion:

The article invites submissions for future features in Image of the Month.

Sources:

• NIST Mass Spectral Library Update