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.
Offered By
Introduction to Molecular Spectroscopy
University of Manchester
About this Course
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Learner Career Outcomes
22%
started a new career after completing these courses
12%
got a tangible career benefit from this course
Learner Career Outcomes
22%
started a new career after completing these courses
12%
got a tangible career benefit from this course
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Intermediate Level
Approx. 11 hours to complete
Suggested: 7 hours/week
English
Subtitles: English
Syllabus - What you will learn from this course
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.
3 hours to complete
10 videos (Total 89 min), 7 readings, 2 quizzes
10 videos
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 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.
2 hours to complete
6 videos (Total 72 min), 4 readings, 2 quizzes
6 videos
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 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.
3 hours to complete
9 videos (Total 114 min), 4 readings, 2 quizzes
9 videos
Nuclear spin in an external magnetic field10m
Spin and magnetisation13m
Chemical shift18m
More on chemical shift19m
Analysis of proton spectra5m
Spin-spin coupling6m
Spin-spin coupling mechanism18m
Carbon-13 NMR and pulsed methods10m
4 readings
Week 3 Lecture Notes10m
Lab 3 Introduction10m
How to obtain an NMR spectrum10m
Run an NMR spectrum10m
2 practice exercises
Week 320m
NMR lab quiz4m
1 hour to complete
Final Assessment
1 hour to complete
1 practice exercise
Week 4 Quiz1h
Reviews
4.6
TOP REVIEWS FROM INTRODUCTION TO MOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY
by RGOct 25, 2017
Some of the questions had wrong answers in the system and hence the actual marks shown is not reflective of the exam. Please see to it that the system has correct answers.
by SAJul 1, 2019
It was a good experience to learn online. This course increase my knowledge an i gain new concept which are very helpful for me and guide me in this field more. thank you
by NPFeb 19, 2020
I think for the NMR spectroscopy, more examples should be given on how to read an NMR scan and determine the possible molecular structure.\n\nEverything else was great.
by JGJun 22, 2019
Overall Course was good, I had gained enough knowledge regarding the basic of spectroscopy. This course is worth for the chemistry and chemical background students.
by DBMay 3, 2019
Excellent course for basic knowledge of spectroscopy. The syllabus is very precisely designed for providing a deep understanding of various spectral techniques.
by ESApr 2, 2018
Excellent material and pace. Assignments were challenging but could be completed from the lecture material alone. Overall a great experience.
by SSJun 24, 2018
The practicals and the quiz series were awesome.This course is awesome for chemistry lovers and also for Chemical engineering guys.
by SSNov 8, 2018
Helped me in analyzing and interpreting the IR,UV-VIS and NMR spectrums. Great course for a Biotechnologist in the making!
Offered by
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
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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.
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