1 Origins and development.- 1.1. Introduction.- 1.2 The ICP-MS system.- 2 Instrumentation for ICP-MS.- 2.1 The inductively coupled plasma.- 2.1.1 Torch and plasma.- 2.1.2 RF coupling.- 2.1.3 Sample introduction.- 2.1.4 Sample history.- 2.1.5 Plasma populations.- 2.1.6 Distribution of ions in the plasma.- 2.1.7 Other plasmas.- 2.2 Ion extraction.- 2.2.1 Boundary layer and sheath.- 2.2.2 Plasma potential and secondary discharge.- 2.2.3 Supersonic jet.-...