Assigning structures to ions in the gas phase

Abstract

The purpose of this short review is critically to assess the important experiments in gas phase ion chemistry whose correct interpretation can lead to the assigning of structures to organic positive ions. The methods fall into two main categories, (i) the measurement of ion enthalpies and transition state energies for their fragmentations and (ii) the detailed examination of the unimolecular and collision‐induced fragmentation behaviour of cations, anions and neutral species. It is argued that in general, none of the above methods alone can suffice for an ion structure determination, but that in combination these techniques provide a powerful tool by means of which ion structures may confidently be assigned.