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Bonds absorb IR at matching frequencies

Bonds absorb IR at matching frequencies

Concept diagram showing a covalent bond as a spring before and after absorbing matching infrared radiation, with larger stretching vibration and higher vibrational energy labelled

Infrared spectroscopy works because covalent bonds vibrate like tiny springs. A bond absorbs IR radiation only when the radiation frequency matches its natural vibration, so the bond moves to a higher vibrational energy level.

Infrared spectroscopy Lesson

  1. A Level
  2. /Chemistry
  3. /Infrared spectroscopy

Step-by-step lessons on AQA A Level Chemistry Infrared spectroscopy. Each one builds up to exam-style questions. Build confidence with atomic structure, bonding and moles calculations early on, since these underpin the more demanding organic mechanisms, equilibrium and practical-analysis topics that dominate Year 2.

Lessons