ir spec

• What is the name of the analytical technique that uses infrared radiation to identify compounds?

  Infrared spectroscopy
• How does infrared spectroscopy help in identifying compounds?

  It uses infrared radiation that is absorbed by molecular bonds, causing them to vibrate.
• What happens to the bonds in molecules when infrared radiation is fired at them?

  The bonds absorb the radiation and start to vibrate, stretching and bending in different ways.
• What factors influence how quickly a bond oscillates or vibrates in infrared spectroscopy?

  The atoms or groups attached to either side of the bond influence its oscillation speed.
• What is the significance of the fingerprint region in infrared spectroscopy?

  • It is below 1,500 cm^-1 and is generally messy.
  • Unique to each individual molecule.
  • Can be compared to known spectra for identification.
• How is frequency measured in infrared spectroscopy?

  Frequency is measured in wave numbers, which are expressed in cm^-1.
• What does a broad peak at around 3,200 cm^-1 indicate in an infrared spectrum?

  It indicates the presence of an alcohol group.
• How can the shape of a peak in infrared spectroscopy help identify functional groups?

  A broad peak suggests an alcohol, while a sharp peak suggests an amine (NH).
• What does a peak at about 2,900 cm^-1 typically signify?

  It signifies the presence of a CH group in organic compounds.
• What does a peak around 1,700 cm^-1 indicate in an infrared spectrum?

  It indicates the presence of a carbonyl (C=O) group.
• What can a peak at about 1,300 cm^-1 signify in infrared spectroscopy?


  It can signify the presence of a CO bond, possibly indicating an ether or ester.
• What are the limitations of using infrared spectroscopy in isolation?

  • Cannot be used alone for definitive identification.
  • Often used in conjunction with other techniques like gas chromatography and NMR.
  • Provides partial information that needs to be pieced together.
• What is the role of known spectra in infrared spectroscopy?


  Known spectra are used to compare and identify unknown molecules.
• Why is infrared spectroscopy considered powerful in identifying unknown substances?


  Because it can provide information about the types of bonds present in a molecule.
• How do different types of spectroscopy and spectrometry work together in analysis?

  They provide complementary information that helps to identify unknown substances effectively.