Linear quadrupoles in mass spectrometry

AbstractThe use of linear quadrupoles in mass spectrometry as mass filters and ion guides is reviewed. Following a tutorial review of the principles of mass filter operation, methods of mass analysis are reviewed. Discussed are extensions of quadrupole mass filters to higher masses, scanning with frequency sweeps of the quadrupole waveform, operation in higher stability regions, and operation with rectangular or other periodic waveforms. Two relatively new methods of mass analysis the use of “islands of stability” and “mass selective axial ejection” are then reviewed. The optimal electrode geometry for a quadrupole mass filter constructed with round rods is discussed. The use of collisional cooling in quadrupole ion guides is discussed along with ion guides that have axial fields. Finally, mass analysis with quadrupoles that have large distortions to the geometry and fields is discussed. An Appendix gives a brief tutorial review of definitions of electrical potentials and fields, as well as the units used in this article. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 28:937–960, 2009