Chemistry 9701 · AS & A Level · Analytical techniques

Analytical techniques — practice question

NMR spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography are both useful for investigating the structures of organic compounds. NMR is especially good for studying hydrogen atoms in compounds, whereas hydrogen atoms cannot be seen by X-rays.
(a(i))[1]

Explain why NMR spectroscopy can detect hydrogen atoms in molecules.

(a(ii))[1]

Explain why hydrogen atoms are invisible to X-rays.

(a(iii))[1]

The molecular formula of the amino acid cysteine is $\text{C}_3\text{H}_7\text{O}_2\text{NS}$. Explain which of the atoms present would show the greatest absorption on exposure to X-rays.

(b(i))[1]

How many protons are present in one molecule of $P$? Explain your answer.

(b(ii))[2]

When a little $\text{D}_2\text{O}$ is added to $P$, the absorption at $\delta 2.0$ disappears. Explain what this tells you about the group responsible for this absorption and why.

(b(iii))[1]

What does the absorption at $\delta 0.9$ tell you about the adjacent carbon atom?

(b(iv))[1]

What group(s) is/are responsible for the absorption at $\delta 0.9$?

(b(v))[1]

Suggest a structure for $P$.

(c(i))[1]

A mass spectrum was obtained of $R$. The ratio of the heights of the $M{:}M{+}1$ peaks was $9.3{:}0.5$. Show that there are five carbon atoms present in one molecule of $R$.

(c(ii))[1]

Predict the ratio of the heights of the $M{:}M{+}2{:}M{+}4$ peaks as a result of the two bromine atoms in the dibromide $R$. Show your working.

(c(iii))[1]

What is the molecular formula of $R$?

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 12-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: The hydrogen nucleus/proton has spin

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI