Distinguishing between IR specs: carboxylic acid vs. N-sub'd amide

This forum made possible through the generous support of SDN members, donors, and sponsors. Thank you.

FROGGBUSTER

Full Member
10+ Year Member
Joined
Jul 22, 2010
Messages
961
Reaction score
4
Here is an IR spec of an N-substituted amide:

ir_N-methyl-1-piperidinecarboxamide.gif


Would a carboxylic acid have a shorter and broader peak? Is that how you would distinguish between the 2?

Members don't see this ad.
 
carboxylic acid will have a broad peak around 3000 cm-1. The amide will have two peaks around 3300cm-1.
 
Both carboxylic acids and amides have a peak at 1720 for one thing. Then carboxylic acid has a broader peak than amides. Sometimes if the nitrogen of the amide is attached to 2 hydrogens, it would show 2 peaks around 3500.
 
Last edited:
Members don't see this ad :)
I would say you could look at this if you have answer choice. N-H gives a peak at 3300 for NH and 2 speaks for NH2. But in terms of carboxylic acid you cant tell that you can only look for the OH and figure out if its an acid or alcohol n then look for a carbonyl at 1650. Although im sure this is easier to narrow on an exam with choices presented.
 
Top