Mass spectra of selected beta‐carbolines [β‐9H‐pyrido(3,4‐b)indoles]

Abstract

Abstract The mass spectra of fifteen β‐carbolines have been interpreted and proposed fragmentations have been substantiated by means of deuterium‐labeling and accurate mass determinations. Most decompositions were predictable. An interesting fragmentation was observed in the spectra of 1‐alkyl‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydro‐β‐carbolines, which rearrange to expel an alkylamino (RNH) radical from the molecular ion.