Far infrared studies of hydrogen bonding in alcohols

Abstract

The spectra of a homologous series of aliphatic alcohols have been measured in the region 50 to 400 cm$^{-1}$ with an interferometric-type spectrometer. The experimental factors involved in using such a spectrometer are discussed. Vibration frequencies associated with the hydrogen-bonded system -OH\ldots O-, and of the torsional modes in the monomers have been assigned. The results are compared with spectral characteristics in the region of the OH group fundamental vibration around 3300 cm$^{-1}$. The degree of localization of the hydrogen-bonded vibration is considered, and approximate values have been calculated for the force constants.