Question detail
How does infrared spectroscopy monitor gases such as CO2, CH4, and H2O?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Organic analysis
Question
- A. It measures the mass of the gas molecules.
- B. It detects the absorption of infrared radiation by molecular bonds.
- C. It analyzes the color change of the gases.
- D. It measures the pressure of the gases.
Answer
It detects the absorption of infrared radiation by molecular bonds.
Explanation
Infrared spectroscopy works by measuring the absorption of infrared radiation by molecular bonds in gases. Different functional groups absorb specific wavelengths of infrared light, allowing for the identification of gases like CO2, CH4, and H2O.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Infrared Absorption
Students often confuse the specific absorption peaks of gases like CO2, CH4, and H2O, leading to incorrect identification of functional groups.
To accurately identify gases using infrared spectroscopy, remember that each gas has unique absorption peaks. For example, CO2 absorbs around 2350 cm⁻¹, CH4 has peaks near 3000 cm⁻¹, and H2O shows strong absorption around 3400 cm⁻¹. Use these values to confirm the presence of each gas.
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