Question

The functional groups in an organic compound can frequently be deduced from its infrared absorption spectrum. A compound containing C, H, and O exhibits intense absorption at 1720 cm-1. No additional information is available. List possible classes for which there is positive evidence.

Relative absorption intensity: (s)=strong, (m)=medium, (w)=weak.

What functional class(es) does the compound belong to?
List only classes for which evidence is given here. Attach no significance to evidence not cited explicitly.
Do not over-interpret exact absorption band positions. None of your inferences should depend on small differences like 10 to 20 cm-1.

a. alkane (List only if no other functional class applies.)
b. alkene h. amine
c. terminal alkyne i. aldehyde or ketone
d. internal alkyne j. carboxylic acid
e. arene k. ester
f. alcohol l. nitrile
g. ether

Answer 1

The class of this compound is aldehyde or ketone (i).

Step-by-step explanation:

Absorption peak at 1720 cm-1 shows the presence of a carbonyl group, possibly an aldehyde or ketone with C=O bond.

Further information on molecular formula would be required for structural elucidation.