Structural analysis

Summary

The aim of this course is to treat three of the major techniques for structural characterization of molecules used in chemistry and chemical engineering: mass spectrometry, NMR, and X-ray techniques.

Content

Keywords

Spectroscopy; Mass Spectrometry; Magnetic Resonance; NMR; X-Rays; Diffraction; Strucutre; Chemical Analysis;

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, the student must be able to:

• Compute the exact masses of molecules in their various ionic forms
• Use mass spectra of molecules to determine their atomic composition
• Work out / Determine the best choice of ion source and mass analyzer to solve a particular problem
• Analyze tandem mass spectra to determine the parent ion mass
• Describe the characteristic x-ray properties of the elements
• Work out / Determine a crystal structure from a diffraction pattern
• Analyze the atomic composition of a compound from its x-ray spectrum
• Explain the fundamental principles of Magnetic Resonance
• Interpret an NMR spectrum in terms of the interactions involved
• Describe the elements of a pulsed Fourier transform NMR experiment
• Design a strategy for analysis of molecular structure or dynamics by NMR

Transversal skills

• Access and evaluate appropriate sources of information.
• Set objectives and design an action plan to reach those objectives.

Assessment methods

Graded exercises during the semester. Written final examination.

Resources

Moodle Link

• https://go.epfl.ch/CH-314