Chemistry 4320/5320
Spectroscopic Identification of Organic Compounds
Instructor: Dr. Dan Swartling Office: FH 102 (301) Phone: 3431
The student is expected to
be able to explain qualitatively the theory behind each technique used and to correlate the
relationships between atomic and molecular properties and their effect on spectra. The student should
be able to interpret IR, NMR, and mass spectral data, and become familiar with the basic operation of
IR and NMR instruments.
Text: Spectrometric Identification of Organic Compounds - Silverstein & Webster
Topics: (in approximate order)
Tests: There will be four exams covering specific topics and a final exam. All tests will consist of two parts - an in-class exam and a take home problem set. For the take-home portion of the exam the student may use any books and notes that they wish.
Laboratory: The laboratory will primarily entail the identification of unknown organic
compounds. Individual samples will be provided weekly along with supplementary data such as mass
spectra or elemental analysis. The student will be responsible for both sample preparation and running
spectra. In addition the laboratory may include 1-3 specific experiments designed to illustrate other
aspects of spectroscopic analysis.
CHEM 532 (graduate) students will be expected to do additional assignments of the following
types: One additional experiment involving a separation technique, an oral presentation describing a
recent paper that illustrates the use of NMR techniques, and occaisonal extra problem assignments.
Grading: Lab 35%, Problems 10%, Tests 35%, Final 20%
Purpose: This course is intended to introduce the student to the spectroscopic methods used in
the determination of organic structures. Examples of commonly used techniques include infrared, raman,
nuclear magnetic resonance, ultraviolet, x-ray and mass spectroscopy.