How can I use an infrared spectrum with a mass spectrum to identify an unknown compound?

You’ll need to use both spectrums to pick out information and piece them together to identify the compound, similar to a puzzle. First, you could use the infrared spectrum to identify which functional groups are present by matching what peaks you see to the known peaks of certain functional groups. If, for example, you have propanol, you may need to identify whether it is propan-1-ol or propan-2-ol (a secondary or a primary alcohol) and you may use the mass spectrum to observe which fragments are present. The c-c bond is weaker when one carbon is bonded to the -OH group therefore for a primary alcohol you may identify fragments that could make up CH3CH2 and CH2OH, and for propan-2-ol, a fragment of CH3 and CH2OHCH2. There are certain things to generally look for in both spectrums and once you identify them you can piece the compound together. 

VM
Answered by Vania M. Chemistry tutor

2223 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

The ionic product of water, Kw = 2.93 × 10−15 mol dm−6 at 10 °C. Calculate the pH of a 0.0131 mol dm−3 solution of calcium hydroxide at 10 °C Give your answer to two decimal places.


What is orbital hybridisation and its relevance?


Why does silicon dioxide have a higher melting point than sulphur?


1a) Describe the difference between strong and weak acids. 1b) HCl is a strong acid. Draw the spin diagram for a chlorine atom.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning