Chemical Forums
Chemistry Forums for Students => Physical Chemistry Forum => Topic started by: paulhao on March 02, 2019, 06:05:11 PM
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I have a hard time understanding the difference between rotational spectrum, vibrational spectrum, rot-vibrational spectrum and electronic spectrum. I have read some books and explanation but still feel so confused about the basic difference among those spectra.
Can anyone explain this to me please, Thanks
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If you have read about them can you define each?
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We will need you to be more specific about where you're having trouble. As stated, the question is really too broad.
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We will need you to be more specific about where you're having trouble. As stated, the question is really too broad.
If you have read about them can you define each?
Well, as I understand,
Rotational spectra occur by rotation of molecule in microwaves region
Vibrational spectra occur by vibration of molecule around its principal axis in infrared waves.
Electronic spectra happen when an electron jumps from one electronic level to another in ultraviolet radiations
Is my understanding right or is it missing some fundamental concepts?
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That's basically right (except that molecules don't vibrate "around the principal axis"). It is complicated by the fact that vibrational transitions may be accompanied by a change in the rotational state, and electronic transitions may be accompanied by a change in both the vibrational and rotational states ("rovibronic" transitions).
The appearance and interpretation of each kind of spectrum is different, as the energy level structure and selection rules differ for each kind. Thus, for example, I have done a lot of vibrational spectroscopy, much less electronic, and very little rotational; so I would be much more comfortable interpreting a vibrational spectrum than the other kinds.
You still haven't told us what it is you don't understand. Have you got any specific questions?