What is infrared spectroscopy and how is it used in organic analysis?

Infrared spectroscopy is a technique used to identify functional groups in organic molecules.

Infrared spectroscopy involves passing infrared radiation through a sample and measuring the amount of radiation absorbed by the sample. Different functional groups absorb different wavelengths of infrared radiation, allowing for the identification of specific functional groups in a molecule. This information can be used to determine the structure of an unknown organic compound.

Infrared spectroscopy is commonly used in organic analysis to identify and characterise organic compounds. It is particularly useful in identifying functional groups such as carbonyl groups, hydroxyl groups, and amino groups. By comparing the infrared spectra of a sample to a database of known spectra, the identity of an unknown compound can be determined.

Infrared spectroscopy can also be used to monitor chemical reactions. By measuring changes in the infrared spectrum of a sample over time, the progress of a reaction can be tracked. This information can be used to optimise reaction conditions and improve yields.

Overall, infrared spectroscopy is a powerful tool in organic analysis, providing valuable information about the structure and properties of organic compounds.