Final answer:
Infrared (IR) spectroscopy is a technique used in chemistry to analyze and identify the functional groups present in a compound. It measures the absorption of infrared radiation by a sample, which is caused by the vibrations of the chemical bonds in the molecules.
Step-by-step explanation:
Infrared (IR) spectroscopy is a technique used in chemistry to analyze and identify the functional groups present in a compound. It measures the absorption of infrared radiation by a sample, which is caused by the vibrations of the chemical bonds in the molecules. Each functional group has characteristic absorption frequencies, allowing scientists to determine its presence or absence in a compound.
For example, IR spectroscopy can be used to verify if a chemical reaction has occurred as planned. By comparing the infrared spectra of the starting compound and the product, chemists can observe changes in the absorption patterns, indicating the conversion of one functional group to another. This information is valuable in organic chemistry, where the identification of functional groups is crucial for understanding the structure and properties of organic compounds.