Frequently Asked Question

Vibrational transitions occur in molecules when they absorb or emit energy, causing their atoms to vibrate at specific frequencies. Here's a simplified explanation:
1. Energy Absorption: A molecule absorbs energy (often in the form of infrared light) causing its bonds to stretch or bend. This energy excites the molecule to a higher vibrational energy level.
2. Energy Emission: When the excited molecule returns to its ground state, it releases the absorbed energy as infrared radiation. This emission is also at a specific frequency, corresponding to the vibrational mode involved.
Key points:

Vibrational modes: Molecules have different ways they can vibrate (stretching, bending). Each mode has a unique energy level.
Quantized energy: Vibrational energy levels are quantized, meaning they can only exist at specific discrete values.
Infrared spectroscopy: Infrared spectroscopy is a powerful technique used to identify and study vibrational modes in molecules.