IR Spectoscopy - Photon Energies

In summary, during absorption of IR photons, energy and momentum must be conserved. This means that the energy of the photon (represented by ##\hbar \omega_{photon}##) must equal the energy of the phonon (represented by ##\hbar \omega_{phonon}##), and the momentum of the photon (represented by ##\hbar k_{photon}##) must equal the momentum of the phonon (represented by ##\hbar k_{phonon}##). It is rare for these quantities to perfectly match at the same time. Additionally, if the phonon bandgap is larger or smaller than the IR bandwidth, this can affect the conservation of energy and momentum. IR spectroscopy
  • #1
Wminus
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Hi! I would like to ask some general question about IR spectroscopy.

During absorption of IR photons two quantities have to be conserved, energy ##\hbar \omega_{photon} = \hbar \omega_{phonon}## and momentum ##\hbar k_{photon} = \hbar k_{phonon}##.

Wouldn't these two quantities be conserved at the same time very rarely? I mean, what's the chances of them matching perfectly?? And what if the phonon bandgap is larger than the photons in the IR bandwidth, or much smaller?

And is it true that one can use IR spectroscopy to map out the optical modes of a material?

thanks for all replies :)
 
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  • #2
Are my questions unclear, perhaps?
 

FAQ: IR Spectoscopy - Photon Energies

1. What is IR Spectroscopy and how does it work?

IR Spectroscopy, or Infrared Spectroscopy, is a technique used in analytical chemistry to identify and analyze the chemical composition of a substance. It works by shining infrared light onto a sample and measuring the amount of light absorbed at different wavelengths. This absorption pattern can then be used to identify the types of chemical bonds present in the sample.

2. What is a photon and how does it relate to IR Spectroscopy?

A photon is a particle of light that carries energy. In IR Spectroscopy, photons of infrared light are used to probe the molecular vibrations of a sample. Different types of bonds in a molecule will absorb photons of different energies, allowing for the identification of the chemical bonds present in the sample.

3. How are photon energies measured in IR Spectroscopy?

Photon energies in IR Spectroscopy are measured in units of wave numbers (cm^-1) or frequency (Hz). Wave numbers are more commonly used and are directly proportional to frequency. They are calculated by dividing the speed of light by the wavelength of the light.

4. What is the relationship between photon energy and molecular vibrations?

The energy of a photon is directly related to the frequency of molecular vibrations in a sample. As the frequency of light increases, so does the energy of the photons. This energy is then absorbed by the molecules, causing them to vibrate at specific frequencies that are characteristic of the types of bonds present.

5. What are some common applications of IR Spectroscopy?

IR Spectroscopy is commonly used in the fields of chemistry, biochemistry, and forensic science for the identification and analysis of chemical compounds. It is also used in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and environmental testing to ensure the quality and safety of products. Additionally, IR Spectroscopy is used in research to study the molecular structure and interactions of various substances.

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