Infrared spectroscopy is an important technique in organic chemistry.
It is an easy way to identify the presence of certain functional groups in a molecule. Also, one can use the unique collection of absorption bands to confirm the identity of a pure compound or to detect the presence of specific impurities. To skip directly to spectral interpretation, click here. Before delving into FT spectrometry, let's review the principles of a classical spectrometer. A slit selects the collection of wavelengths that shine through the sample at any given time.