Outline
Theory of light
Electromagnetic spectrum
The spectrometer
UV visible spectrophotometry
IR spectrophotometry
 

Ultraviolet/visible Spectrophotometry
A technique which measures the amount and types of ultraviolet and visible light which a pure       substance absorbs or transmits
Peaks are generally broad and few in number
Not used for individualization

Ultraviolet Spectrum of Heroin

Infrared Spectrophotometry
Technique which measures the amount and types of infrared light that are absorbed (or transmitted) by a pure substance

Parts of a Simple Spectrophotometer
Infrared Spectrophotometry

There are so many types of IR light that are absorbed by organic compounds, that the infrared     spectrum is considered to be unique for each substance
This makes IR a CONFIRMATORY test for a pure substance such as a drug

Infrared Spectra of Auto Paints
Infrared and Mass Spectra of Amphetamine and Methamphetamine
 

Return to Study Guides