Nonlinear resonances in linear segmented Paul trap of short central segment

Linear segmented Paul trap system has been prepared for ion mass spectroscopy experiments. A nonstandard approach to stability of trapped ions is applied to explain some effects observed with ensembles of calcium ions. Trap's stability diagram is extended to 3‐dimensional one using additional ∆a besides standard q and a stability parameters. Nonlinear resonances in (q, ∆a) diagrams are observed and described with a proposed model. The resonance lines have been identified using simple simulations and comparing the numerical and experimental results. The phenomenon can be applied in electron‐impact ionization experiments for mass identification of obtained ions or purification of their ensembles.