GT Science Tutorial: Spectroscopy

Introduction

• Topic: Rotational, Vibrational, and Electronic Spectra
• Importance: Key aspects of the spectroscopy chapter
• Definition of Spectroscopy:
  • Branch of science dealing with spectra formed by electromagnetic radiation interacting with matter.
  • Helps in understanding the properties of matter.

Energy Levels in Molecules

• Molecules have different sets of energy levels with varying energy gaps.
• Types of Energy Levels:
  • Rotational Energy Levels:
    • Small energy gaps
  • Vibrational Energy Levels:
    • Intermediate energy gaps (between rotational and electronic)
  • Electronic Energy Levels:
    • Large energy gaps

Types of Spectra

1. Rotational Spectra (Microwave Spectra)

• Definition:
  • Occurs when a molecule absorbs low energy causing transitions between rotational energy levels within the same vibrational energy level.
• Characteristics:
  • Transitions occur among rotational energy levels only.
  • Wavelength in the microwave region.

2. Vibrational Spectra (Vibrational-Rotational Spectra)

• Definition:
  • Occurs when a molecule absorbs sufficient energy for transitions between vibrational energy levels within the same electronic level.
• Characteristics:
  • Transitions occur among vibrational energy levels.
  • Wavelength in the infrared region.
  • Can also include transitions between rotational energy levels, leading to vibrational-rotational spectra.

3. Electronic Spectra (Electronic Band Spectra)

• Definition:
  • Occurs when a molecule absorbs high energy causing transitions between electronic energy levels.
• Characteristics:
  • Transitions from one electronic energy level to another.
  • Includes vibrational and rotational spectra as well.

Conclusion

• Summary: Understanding rotational, vibrational, and electronic spectra is crucial in spectroscopy.
• Encouragement: Share the video for better understanding of spectroscopy.