Analyzing Molecular Compounds and Functional Groups in Organic Chemistry

The text discusses the use of mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy in organic chemistry, highlighting their respective roles in identifying molecular compounds and functional groups. It explains the principles of mass spectrometry, including the process of ionizing and analyzing molecular fragments, and provides examples of interpreting mass spectra for different compounds. The text also introduces the concept of high resolution mass spectrometry for precise molecular formula determination. In addition, it delves into the principles of infrared spectroscopy, describing how molecular vibrations are measured and how functional groups can be identified based on absorption patterns. The application of these techniques in a forensic investigation to identify a mystery white powder is detailed, demonstrating the importance of pattern recognition in determining molecular structures and functional groups.