A Fourier Transform infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometer system, with moderately high resolution and sufficient computer power to allow sophisticated data analysis, has recently been acquired by the Chemistry Department of Grinnell College. A spectral data base and an attenuated total reflectance sampling accessory are integral parts of the system. A major impact of this acquisition is in the Instrumental Analysis course where extensive data manipulation, data base searching, quantitative analysis and low light techniques will be a major emphasis. In addition, the system is used in other upper division courses, particularly in the ongoing active student research program, and in the Physical Chemistry laboratory for obtaining and analyzing high resolution spectra of gases.
