Introduction to Molecular Spectroscopy

University of Manchester

About this Course

The course introduces the three key spectroscopic methods used by chemists and biochemists to analyse the molecular and electronic structure of atoms and molecules. These are UV/Visible , Infra-red (IR) and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopies. The content is presented using short focussed and interactive screencast presentations accompanied by formative quizzes to probe understanding of the key concepts presented. Numerous exercises are provided to facilitate mastery of each topic. A unique virtual spectroscopic laboratory is made available to enable students to measure and analyse spectra online. Assessment is via summative quizzes completed during the course period.

100% online courses

Start instantly and learn at your own schedule.

Intermediate Level

Approx. 11 hours to complete

Suggested: 5 hours/week

English

Subtitles: English

100% online courses

Start instantly and learn at your own schedule.

Intermediate Level

Approx. 11 hours to complete

Suggested: 5 hours/week

English

Subtitles: English

Syllabus - What you will learn from this course

1

Section

3 hours to complete

Ultraviolet and Visible Spectroscopy

In this first week we introduce the electromagnetic spectrum and the origin of transitions giving rise to ultraviolet and visible (UV/Vis) spectra. You will learn that electronic transitions are caused by absorption of radiation in the UV/Vis region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The reason for the wavelength and intensity of bands will be described and the colour origin of certain compounds will be discussed. You will also be shown how UV/Vis spectroscopy is performed and you will be able to run and analyse your own spectra. As the final activity in this module you are given a link to view how to obtain a UV/Visible spectrum in the laboratory. Good luck, try and participate in the discussion forums to enhance your learning and don't forget to complete the end of week laboratory quiz which contributes to your final mark....

10 videos (Total 89 min), 7 readings, 2 quizzes

10 videos

Introduction1m

What is spectroscopy?9m

The nature and properties of electromagnetic radiation6m

Example of energy calculation10m

Energy levels: Molecular Orbital Theory - revision11m

Molecular Orbital diagram for CO5m

UV/Visible spectroscopy10m

Example of Beer-Lambert calculation8m

Transitions relevant to UV/Vis Spectroscopy15m

Effect of conjugation on wavelength8m

7 readings

Guidance for studying the course10m

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS10m

Pre-course survey5m

Week 1 Lecture Notes10m

Lab 1 Introduction10m

How to obtain a UV/Vis spectrum10m

Run a UV/Visible spectrum10m

2 practice exercises

Week 128m

UV/Vis laboratory quiz4m

2

Section

2 hours to complete

Infrared Spectroscopy

In this module we introduce the theory underpinning infrared (IR) spectroscopy and show examples of analysis using the technique. Transitions between the vibrational energy levels of molecules occurs in the infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum. We start with the theory underlying vibration using the simple harmonic oscillator model. Analysis of more complex molecules is introduced using group frequencies and number of vibrational modes. You will also be shown how to obtain an infrared spectrum and will have an opportunity to run your own spectrum. At the end of this module you are given a link to view how to obtain an infra red spectrum in the laboratory. Don't forget to complete the end of week laboratory quiz which contributes to your final mark for this course....

6 videos (Total 72 min), 4 readings, 2 quizzes

6 videos

Infrared spectroscopy13m

Vibrational frequency12m

Example vibrational frequency calculation10m

Energy levels and dipoles14m

Vibrational modes9m

Example IR spectra of organic molecules12m

4 readings

Week 2 Lecture Notes10m

Lab 2 Introduction10m

How to obtain an infra red spectrum10m

Run an infra red spectrum10m

2 practice exercises

Week 220m

IR Lab Quiz4m

3

Section

3 hours to complete

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy

This week we concentrate on Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Here a magnetic field is used to create energy levels for magnetic nuclei present in a molecule. Transition between these energy levels occurs in the radiofrequency region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The positions of the bands in the observed spectrum is dependent on the shielding of the nuclei by the local electronic structure, giving rise to a parameter known as chemical shift. Bands also display fine structure caused by spin-spin coupling with neighbouring nuclei. Examples on the analysis of NMR spectra for structure determination will be given. As the final activity in this module you are given a link to view how to obtain an NMR spectrum in the laboratory. Don't forget to compete this end of week laboratory quiz which contributes to your final mark. ...

9 videos (Total 114 min), 4 readings, 2 quizzes

9 videos

NMR Spectroscopy Introduction11m

Nuclear spin in an external magnetic field10m

Spin and magnetisation13m

Chemical shift18m

4

Section

1 hour to complete

Final Assessment

...

1 quiz

1 practice exercises

Week 4 Quiz0m

Instructor

Patrick J O'Malley, D.Sc

Reader

About University of Manchester

Tracing its roots back to 1824, the University of Manchester is home to almost 40,000 students. The University has three Nobel laureates among its current staff – more than any other British university - and a total of 25 Nobel laureates have come from our past and present students and staff. We have three main goals: to undertake world-class research; to deliver an outstanding learning and student experience; and to be socially responsible....

Frequently Asked Questions

When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?
Once you enroll for a Certificate, you’ll have access to all videos, quizzes, and programming assignments (if applicable). Peer review assignments can only be submitted and reviewed once your session has begun. If you choose to explore the course without purchasing, you may not be able to access certain assignments.
What will I get if I pay for this course?
If you pay for this course, you will have access to all of the features and content you need to earn a Course Certificate. If you complete the course successfully, your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile. Note that the Course Certificate does not represent official academic credit from the partner institution offering the course.
What is the refund policy?
Is financial aid available?
Yes! Coursera provides financial aid to learners who would like to complete a course but cannot afford the course fee. To apply for aid, select "Learn more and apply" in the Financial Aid section below the "Enroll" button. You'll be prompted to complete a simple application; no other paperwork is required.

More questions? Visit the Learner Help Center

Introduction to Molecular Spectroscopy