Use the information provided by these spectra to answer the following questions - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 5 - 2009 - Paper 1
Question 5
Use the information provided by these spectra to answer the following questions.
a. What is the molecular formula of this molecule?
b. How many different proton en... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Use the information provided by these spectra to answer the following questions - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 5 - 2009 - Paper 1
Step 1
What is the molecular formula of this molecule?
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The molecular formula can be determined based on the spectral data provided. In this case, the analysis indicates that the molecule is C₂H₄O₂. This formula suggests the presence of two carbon atoms, four hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms.
Step 2
How many different proton environments are there in this molecule?
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
There are two different proton environments in this molecule. The environments can be identified through NMR spectroscopy, where the peaks correspond to different types of hydrogen atoms in the molecule.
Step 3
Draw the structure of the unknown molecule, clearly showing all bonds.
96%
101 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The structure of the molecule can be depicted as follows:
H H
| |
HO-C-C=O
| |
H O
This diagram highlights all bonds and functional groups present in the molecule.
Step 4
Explain how the structure of the compound you have drawn in part c. is consistent with its IR spectrum.
98%
120 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The IR spectrum indicates a broad peak around 2500-3300 cm⁻¹, which is characteristic of O-H (acid) stretching, confirming the presence of hydroxyl groups in the structure. Additionally, the signature C=O absorption band correlates with the carbonyl functional group observed in the depicted molecular structure.
Step 5
Name the compound you have drawn in part c.
97%
117 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The compound drawn in part c is acetic acid, which is denoted as C₂H₄O₂ in its molecular formula.
