Section 6.8: Chemistry Journal
Section 6.8 Questions, page 295
1. The experiment could only show that the most contaminated paper came from banks in areas
which had the highest known drug use. However, it could not identify where the cocaine came
from.
2. The paper used in the experiment was examined under the microscope to ensure that it was
similar to the paper used to make banknotes.
3. Two ways in which this experiment was controlled:
The paper is prepared in exactly the same way as the banknotes.
The paper strips are shipped to banks in sealed bags to ensure they would not be contaminated.
4. Ink may have provided additional surfaces onto which drugs could attach. If so, more drug
contamination would be detected.
5. A mass spectrum of a compound is similar to a fingerprint because each compound has a
unique mass spectrum.
6. Since heroin is less chemically stable, it may decompose during the analysis, making it
difficult to detect.
7. (a) Answers may vary. Sample answer: Three other uses of mass spectroscopy include:
crime investigations involving fire and explosions; drug testing; and detection of toxins in food
and water.
(b) Answers will vary. Sample answer: The combination of gas chromatography and mass
spectroscopy GC-MS are useful in the investigation of crimes involving arson. Determining the
origin and cause of a fire can be challenging. The detection of the presence of an accelerant can
be used as evidence that a fire was deliberately set. An accelerant is a flammable substance that
is used to intentionally start or speed up a fire. A GC-MS analysis can be used on samples from a
suspected crime scene to determine if an accelerant is present.
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Chapter 6: Quantities in Chemical Formulas
6.8-1