An Interactive Dry Lab Introduction to Vibrational Raman Spectroscopy Using Carbon Tetrachloride

Abstract

An introduction to vibrational Raman spectroscopy is presented in a dry lab format that utilizes free software to add interactivity. Relevant IR and Raman spectra of carbon tetrachloride are systematically compared and analyzed on the basis of a broad review of general vibrational spectroscopy. Included in the discussion are the classic physical and group theory descriptions of IR and Raman spectroscopy, depolarization measurements, the application of Boltzmann analysis for sample temperature calculations, isotope effects visible under high-resolution conditions, and a full description of the Raman instrument and conditions used to acquire all spectra. The software utilized to provide interactivity allows determination of peak positions and intensities, which means data acquisition is the only experience students lack. All spectra are available on the Internet, as is the free software that allows viewing and manipulation.

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