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The previous blog described two general approaches to analyzing data for an unknown compound: broad and focused approaches. The table below lists the general advantages of broad and focused approaches for a structure elucidation. Depending on the data at hand, one approach can be considered the better choice. An elucidation where lots of background information...

The underlying essence of a structure elucidation process is to structurally distinguish an unknown from a set of possible isomers. This is evident by the number of possible isomers for a given molecular formula. The chart below divides isomers into two groups: Structural/Constitutional/Regio and Stereo/Spatial isomers. Wikipedia links are included for further reading into the...

Depending on sample preparation, adduct ions can be present on a mass spectrum. The goal of the elucidator is to identify whether an adduct ion(s) is present and its contribution to the mass (or elemental composition) of the unknown compound. The example ESI+ mass spectrum below exhibits 2 ion clusters at m/z 951.305 and 973.287,...

Structure elucidators will routinely use data from multiple techniques such as MS and NMR to build a proposed structure(s). When dealing with data from multiple techniques, the issue may arise that the data seem to contradict each other. In these cases, it is best to step back and re-evaluate the data from a different angle....

Whenever data appear to contradict each other, an instinctive reaction to this problem is to collect more data. Collecting more data can help to understand the problem and/or complicate the matter. Remember the model for Elucidation Evolution? Maximize data extraction (MDE) while minimizing data collection (MDC). Recap of the problem: The ESI+ MS shows a...

Pattern recognition is an integral part of the process of structure elucidation. The quicker the elucidator can pick up on the pattern, the faster the elucidation can be accomplished and the less time wasted in elucidating the unknown. Recap of the problem: The ESI+ MS shows a single [M+H]+ at m/z 102 allowing a maximum carbon...

With any type of data, there is an inherent risk of misinterpretation. My advice to elucidators is to consider multiple solutions and examine each one thoroughly. In the end, the answer to any problem set lies in tying together the bits of information in hopes of understanding the bigger picture. Recap of the problem: The...

TLC (Thin Layer Chromatography) offers a simple approach to identifying a solvent(s) for separating out a mixture, monitoring a reaction to completion, etc. Furthermore, the TLC plates can be stained to identify the presence or absence of various functional groups such as amines, ketones, etc. This qualitative experiment does offer various drawbacks. The process of...

As more information is needed to solve an unknown, it becomes useful to understand what information is available, make a hypothesis and then get to the grunt work of eliminating the unlikely candidates. Below is a summary explaining some of the information that can be extracted from the problem set. Given an unknown compound as...