Is Vanillin Formation Likely Based on IR Spectrum Analysis?

In summary, the conversation discusses the presence of peaks in the IR spectra of vanillin and 2-methoxyphenol. The question is whether or not vanillin has formed, as the IR spectrum shows a peak for C=O at 1740-1720, which is absent in the IR spectrum of 2-methoxyphenol. However, there is disagreement as the peak is clearly present in both spectra, with the difference being that it is stronger in the product spectrum.
  • #1
jsmith613
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Homework Statement



I have attached the question and necessary infromation

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


so here's what I would say

"Unlikely as the peaks in the IR spec are very similar, no additional peaks have shown"

BUT THE MARK SCHEME SAYS

Vanillin IS likely to have formed;
as the IR spectrum shows absorption for C=O;
at about 1740-1720;
this is ABSENT IN THE IR SPEC of 2-methoxyphenol


BUT IT CLEARLY IS NOT, the PEAK IS CLEARLY THERE IN BOTH SPECTRA
What are they talking about?
 

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  • #2
C=O peaks are very strong, and the difference between the spectra is that the peak at 1740 is much stronger in the product spectrum than in the reagent spectrum.
 

What is an IR spectrum?

An IR spectrum, also known as an infrared spectrum, is a graphical representation of the absorption of infrared light by a substance. It shows the specific frequencies of light that a substance absorbs, which can provide information about its molecular structure.

What is the purpose of analyzing an IR spectrum?

The purpose of analyzing an IR spectrum is to identify the functional groups present in a substance. Different functional groups absorb infrared light at distinct frequencies, so by analyzing the peaks on the spectrum, scientists can determine the types of bonds and atoms present in a molecule.

How is an IR spectrum obtained?

An IR spectrum is obtained by passing infrared light through a sample of the substance and measuring the amount of light that is absorbed. This information is then plotted on a graph, with the intensity of absorption on the y-axis and the frequency of light on the x-axis.

What is the range of frequencies on an IR spectrum?

The range of frequencies on an IR spectrum typically spans from 4000 cm-1 to 400 cm-1. This range is divided into three regions: the near-infrared region, the mid-infrared region, and the far-infrared region. Each region corresponds to different types of molecular vibrations.

Can an IR spectrum be used to determine the identity of a substance?

Yes, an IR spectrum can be used to determine the identity of a substance. By comparing the peaks on an unknown substance's IR spectrum to those of known substances, scientists can identify the functional groups and determine the substance's molecular structure.

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