22. Infra-red Spectroscopy

Question 1

What is the purpose of an infra-red spectrum?

Answer 1

We can identify the absorption range and appearance of peak to identify the functional groups present (or absent) in a molecule.

*Organic molecules absorb wavelengths of infra-red radiation. The different wavelengths are measured in wavenumber, cm^-1

Question 2

Outline the use of infra-red spectroscopy in monitoring air pollution.

Answer 2

• IR spectroscopy can be used to measure the amounts of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere
• bonds in CO2, methane and water vapour can be identified by the absorption range and appearance of peaks

*Infra-red spectroscopy is used to compare/measure (characteristic) wavelengths (eg. of bond in CO)