Chemical Forums

Chemistry Forums for Students => Organic Chemistry Forum => Topic started by: CBass2288 on May 10, 2021, 12:59:26 PM

Title: Unknown Compounds
Post by: CBass2288 on May 10, 2021, 12:59:26 PM

Hello,

In my lab class, I am tasked with identifying an unknown compound given various information on it, such as physical properties, specific chemical test results, spectroscopy, etc. There is a solid, liquid, and spectroscopy unknown. I have really struggled in things like this in the past and am looking for help/guidance from anyone willing. Much appreciated.

Title: Re: Unknown Compounds
Post by: Meter on May 10, 2021, 01:09:14 PM

It would be a good start to tell us what data you have and what your thoughts are so far.

Title: Re: Unknown Compounds
Post by: CBass2288 on May 10, 2021, 01:14:53 PM

Agreed, however, there is a lot of data to include in a post along with spectrums that I am not able to include here.

Title: Re: Unknown Compounds
Post by: Meter on May 10, 2021, 01:20:36 PM

Then the best advice I can give you is to look very hard at your organic molecules: Identify all functional groups and ask yourself what tests will cause a positive/indicative result for those functional groups.

Title: Re: Unknown Compounds
Post by: Babcock_Hall on May 10, 2021, 01:27:16 PM

If you have the molecular formula, you can calculate the number of degrees of unsaturation.  This rarely leads to a unique answer regarding identity, but it does cut the territory down considerably.  It is also possible to post images of spectra.