A sample of ethanedioic acid was treated with an excess of an unknown alcohol in the presence of a strong acid catalyst. The products of the reaction were separated and analysed in a time of flight (TOF) mass spectrometer. Two peaks were observed at m / z = 104 and 118.
(a) Identify the species responsible for the two peaks.
The answer's are [CH3OCOCOOH]+ and [CH3OCOCOOCH3] + but I'm not sure why. Cheers in advance.