Infrared Spectra of Some Biochemical Substances in Water

Abstract

Infrared spectra in water as a solvent are presented for some substances of biochemical interest, including members of the citric acid cycle. Use is made of a barium fluoride cell in conjunction with a transmittance screen. An example is given of the use of such spectra to show a chemical change attendant upon the dissolution of an unstable compound. The spectra of α-ketoglutaric acid in the solid state and in aqueous solution are given as examples showing typically distinct differences between spectra observed in water solution and in the solid state