Question

When running a spectrum of a neat liquid, what are problems that may arise when:

a.using a low-viscosity liquid?
b.using a viscous liquid?

Answer 1

Answer 1) : Weak peaks

Explanation : When running a spectrum of a neat liquid, the problems that may arise using a low-viscosity liquid there will be weak peaks obtained and it will be difficult to interpret them. As there will be very thin path length between the salt plates to obtain the spectrum. The quality of the peaks will be low.

Answer 2) : Strong peaks

Explanation : When running a spectrum of a neat liquid, while using a viscous liquid the obtained peaks will be strong peaks. As the viscous liquid will enable to form a thick layer between the salt plates which will produce strong, intense and sharp peaks. This will be high resolved and clear peaks on the spectrum.

Answer 2

Problems of a) using a low-viscosity liquid is:
--> The low viscosity of liquid makes the path length of sample is thin so the signal will appear weak

Problem of b) Using a viscous liquid is:
--> The viscous liquid will make the sample spend more time with thick path length so the signal will be more intense