Ask your own question, for FREE!
Biology 13 Online
OpenStudy (anonymous):

Identifying Organic Compounds

OpenStudy (anonymous):

true, all organic compounds have carbon. Identifying organic compounds is a science all its own. They are partially identified to type by chemical reactions like how proteins or amides react. They are partially identified by mass spectrometry where the molecule is broken-up and the mass of component atoms is analyzed to give a molecular formula. Then Infrared or microwave spectrometry is used to outline the structure of the molecule from the known formula. With very large molecules, its physical structure can be outlined by xray or electron microscopy. So it is not just one thing that identifies organic compounds. It is a fun part of physical chemistry to find an unknown compound and elucidate its structure and sometimes its biological function.

Can't find your answer? Make a FREE account and ask your own questions, OR help others and earn volunteer hours!

Join our real-time social learning platform and learn together with your friends!
Latest Questions
Arriyanalol: i need help
1 day ago 7 Replies 1 Medal
Arriyanalol: CONGRATS to me
1 day ago 8 Replies 2 Medals
Legomaster346: What colleges are good that are near Arab Alabama?
1 week ago 5 Replies 0 Medals
Arriyanalol: i need help
1 week ago 6 Replies 2 Medals
Can't find your answer? Make a FREE account and ask your own questions, OR help others and earn volunteer hours!

Join our real-time social learning platform and learn together with your friends!