A1: IR Spectroscopy and Mass Spec

Question 1

Fragment Ions

Answer 1

Some molecular ions break down into smaller pieces (fragments) by fragmentation, which cause other peaks in the mass spectrum

Question 2

Define molecular ion (M+)

Answer 2

When an organic compound is put in the mass spectrum and loses an electron (Detects mass/charge m/z ratio)

Question 2

Define M+ Peak

Answer 2

Clearest peak at highest m/z value on the right side

Question 3

Define M+1 peak

Answer 3

small peak one unit after the M+ peak (Due to 1.1% of carbon being the Carbon-13 isotope)

Question 4

3 main greenhouse gases and bonds

Answer 4

Water Vapor (H-O-H)
Carbon dioxide (O=C=O)
Methane

Question 5

What is the effect of IR radiation on covalent bonds

Answer 5

The bonds bend and stretch more

Question 6

Applications of infrared spectroscopy

Answer 6

Pollutants can be identified by spectral fingerprints (vehicle emissions like CO and NO)
Breathalysers can detect ethanol in the breath