Proton NMR - Spin-Spin Splitting and Multiplicity

[Vitalik]

1. What will be the multiplicity due to spin-spin splitting of the highlighted protons in the molecule: (C6H5)-CH2-CH2-CH2-OH?

Homework Equations

None

The Attempt at a Solution

I know that the ones surrounding the highlighted CH2 group are not equivalent. If they were, the multiplicity would be 5. When I make a branching diagram, I get 6 to a multiplet. In the textbook, there was an example of a similar case where you could "assume" that they were equal, even though they were not. How do I know if I can "assume" in this case? My answer choices are a) doublet b) triplet c) quartet d) quintet e) hextet. I'm stuck between d) a quintet, if I assume that they are equal and e) the minimum, probably, but couldn't a multiplet of more than 6 form also? Any help? Thank you.

 

[chemisttree]

The assumption you are asked to make... is this first order coupling? Generally first order coupling is assumed for $$\Delta v\ /J > 20$$, where $$\Delta v\$$ is the frequency difference from the centroid of the multiplets. Sometimes first order coupling is apparent where $$\Delta v\ /J =10$$. The spin-spin coupling constants for methylene-methylene are usually about 5-7 Hz.

Remember that J coupling is independent of magnetic field strength whereas the absorption frequency is a function of field strength.

 

[Vitalik]

Thank you for your help. The problem never said that I could assume it was first-order coupling, but my professor also cleared up the situation. Thanks again.