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Ch. 12 - Infrared Spectroscopy and Mass Spectrometry
Wade - Organic Chemistry 9th Edition
Wade9th EditionOrganic ChemistryISBN: 9780135213728Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 12, Problem 5

The infrared spectra for three compounds are provided. Each compound has one or more of the following functional groups: conjugated ketone, ester, amide, nitrile, and alkyne. Determine the functional group(s) in each compound, and assign the major peaks above 1600 cm–1.
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Examine the infrared spectra for each compound and identify the major peaks above 1600 cm-1. Infrared spectroscopy is used to identify functional groups based on characteristic absorption frequencies.
Look for a peak in the range of 1650–1700 cm-1. This range typically corresponds to the C=O stretching vibration of a conjugated ketone or an amide. Conjugation lowers the frequency compared to a non-conjugated ketone.
Check for a peak in the range of 1735–1750 cm-1. This range is characteristic of the C=O stretching vibration in esters. Esters generally have higher frequencies compared to ketones due to the electron-withdrawing effect of the oxygen atom.
Identify peaks in the range of 2100–2260 cm-1. This range is indicative of a nitrile (C≡N) or an alkyne (C≡C) functional group. Nitriles typically absorb closer to 2200 cm-1, while alkynes absorb closer to 2100 cm-1.
Correlate the identified peaks with the functional groups present in each compound. Assign the functional group(s) based on the absorption frequencies and ensure that the major peaks above 1600 cm-1 are consistent with the expected vibrations for the functional groups.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Infrared Spectroscopy

Infrared spectroscopy is an analytical technique used to identify functional groups in organic compounds by measuring the absorption of infrared light. Different functional groups absorb light at characteristic wavelengths, allowing for the identification of specific bonds and structures. Peaks in the IR spectrum correspond to vibrational transitions of molecular bonds, with major peaks typically appearing above 1600 cm-1 indicating the presence of certain functional groups.
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Functional Groups

Functional groups are specific groups of atoms within molecules that are responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of those molecules. Common functional groups include ketones, esters, amides, nitriles, and alkynes, each with distinct structural features and reactivity. Understanding these groups is essential for predicting the behavior of organic compounds and interpreting their IR spectra.
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Peak Assignments in IR Spectra

In IR spectroscopy, peak assignments refer to the identification of specific peaks in the spectrum that correspond to particular functional groups. Peaks above 1600 cm-1 are typically associated with double bonds and other functional groups, such as carbonyls (C=O) and alkynes (C≡C). Assigning these peaks accurately is crucial for determining the functional groups present in a compound and understanding its chemical properties.
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