Far infrared studies of hydrogen bonding in alcohols

The spectra of a homologous series of aliphatic alcohols have been measured in the region 50 to 400 cm-1 with an interferometric-type spectrometer. The experimental factors involved in using such a spectrometer are discussed. Vibration frequencies associated with the hydrogen-bonded system — O H ... O— , and of the torsional modes in the monomers have been assigned. The results are compared with spectral characteristics in the region of the OH group fundamental vibration around 3300 cm-1. The degree of localization of the hydrogenbonded vibration is considered, and approximate values have been calculated for the force constants.