Computerized infrared spectroscopy is widely used by scientists in many fields for a variety of purposes, from quality control of industrial products and monitoring of environmental contaminants to theoretical studies of the basic nature of molecules. Eight new infrared spectroscopy experiments are being introduced into the general, organic, analytical, physical and instrumental chemistry courses at Otterbein College as a result of the recent acquisition of an infrared spectrophotometer with computer and spectral processing software attachments. This development is significantly improving undergraduate laboratory instruction by allowing students to gain experience with this instrumental technique.
