Infrared Spectroscopy

[Wizard]

Where is the fingerprint region in IR? And what does it do? How are we supposed to use it in VCE Chemistry?

Thanks

[iamdan08]

The fingerprint region is usually between 500-1300 cm-1 (or the right hand side of the graph). Each organic compound has its own unique absorption pattern (just like a fingerprint is unique to the individual), which shows up on the graph and so it can be used to identify the compound by comparing this region to known samples.

Anyone else wanna add further info...been a while since i've looked at this stuff!

[shinny]

Simply put, the finger print region allows you to identify what a compound is just by matching fingerprint regions against standard IR data already collected. It's often hard to match the other regions because many molecules have the same types of bonds, but what is unique about the finger print region is that the readings here result from the readings resonating as a result of the twisting of the ENTIRE molecule, as opposed to single OH bonds and such. The way the entire molecule twists and bends is unique and specific to each molecule and the way it is structured, and so yeh, each molecule will have it's own unique fingerprint identity.

[Mao]

And the million dollar answer is: no, you will not be expected to know how to use the fingerprint region in VCE Chemistry