Identification of functional groups by test-tube reactions

The reactions of functional groups listed in the specification.

Students should be able to identify the functional groups using reactions in the specification.

Required practical 6

Tests for alcohol, aldehyde, alkene and carboxylic acid.

Mass spectrometry

Mass spectrometry can be used to determine the molecular formula of a compound.

Students should be able to use precise atomic masses and the precise molecular mass to determine the molecular formula of a compound.

Infrared spectroscopy

Bonds in a molecule absorb infrared radiation at characteristic wavenumbers.

‘Fingerprinting’ allows identification of a molecule by comparison of spectra.

Students should be able to:
- use infrared spectra and the Chemistry Data Sheet or Booklet to identify particular bonds, and therefore functional groups, and also to identify impurities.

The link between absorption of infrared radiation by bonds in CO₂, methane and water vapour and global warming.