Chapter 13: Mass Spectrometry and Spectroscopy

These flashcards cover essential terms and concepts related to mass spectrometry and spectroscopy, which are crucial for understanding organic compound analysis.

Mass Spectrometry

An analytical technique used to determine the molecular mass and molecular formula of compounds.

Infrared Spectroscopy

A technique used to identify functional groups in a compound based on the absorption of infrared light.

Degrees of Unsaturation (DU)

A measure of the degree of unsaturation in a compound, calculated to determine the number of rings and π bonds.

Empirical Formula

The simplest ratio of atoms in a compound.

Molecular Formula

The true number and type of atoms in a compound.

Combustion Analysis

A quantitative analysis technique used to determine the percentages of elements in a compound by converting it to CO2 and H2O.

m/z (Mass-to-charge ratio)

Used in mass spectrometry to indicate the mass of ions based on their charge.

Fragmentation Patterns

Patterns observed in mass spectrometry that indicate the stability and types of fragments produced from a parent molecule.

Isotopic Masses

Variations in mass due to isotopes, which affect the appearance of peaks in mass spectrometry.

Hooke's Law

A principle used in infrared spectroscopy to relate the energy of a bond to its frequency of vibration.

Energy Transitions in IR Spectroscopy

The absorption and release of energy in the form of stretching and bending of bonds during IR spectroscopy.

Functional Group Identification

Using IR spectroscopy to determine the presence of specific functional groups based on unique absorption patterns.