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

2103 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Compare the basic ability between ammonia, ethyl amine and phenyl amine.


What is the electronic configuration for Sulphur?


Explain the reactions of CH3CH2Cl with the nucleophile NH3 and name the initial product formed.


A chemist mixes together 0.450 mol N2 with 0.450 mol H2 in a sealed container. The mixture is heated and allowed to reach equilibrium. At equilibrium, the mixture contains 0.400 mol N2 and the total pressure is 500 kPa. Calculate Kp.


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