Mass spectrometry of organic compounds X–Fragementation of 2-buten-1-o1 on electron-impact

The mass spectra of variously deuterated 2-buten-1-ols (both Z and E) have been examined. Evidence is presented for the formation of the M – H₂O]⁺· ion via a 6-membered transition state, and for the occurrence of two distinct reaction pathways for formation of the major ions at m/e 57 and 43.