The Analytical Techniques section focuses on the methods and instruments used for qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis, essential for understanding experimental chemistry, material characterization, and laboratory diagnostics. This module is designed for school (Class 11–12) and undergraduate students, with strong emphasis on conceptual clarity, instrumentation basics, and exam relevance.
In this section, you will study:
Classical analytical methods – qualitative analysis, gravimetric and volumetric analysis
Spectroscopic techniques – UV–Visible spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, NMR (introductory level), and mass spectrometry
Chromatographic methods – paper chromatography, TLC, column chromatography, gas chromatography, and HPLC (basics)
Electroanalytical techniques – conductometry, potentiometry, pH measurement, and electrochemical cells
Thermal and surface analysis (introductory) – TGA, DTA, and DSC (UG level)
Instrumentation principles – working, components, and applications
Data interpretation – spectra analysis, peak identification, and quantitative calculations
NCERT- and UG-aligned explanations, supported by diagrams, numericals, MCQs, assertion–reason questions, and PYQs
The content is structured to bridge theory with laboratory practice, strengthen analytical and interpretation skills, and help students confidently answer instrumentation- and application-based questions in school and undergraduate examinations.
Develop a systematic and practical understanding of Analytical Techniques to master this crucial area of modern Chemistry.
Q. In IR spectroscopy, what does a peak at around 1700 cm-1 typically indicate?
A.
Presence of alcohols
B.
Presence of carbonyl groups
C.
Presence of amines
D.
Presence of alkenes
Solution
A peak at around 1700 cm-1 in IR spectroscopy typically indicates the presence of carbonyl (C=O) groups, which are characteristic of ketones and aldehydes.
Q. In mass spectrometry, what does the term 'fragmentation' refer to?
A.
The separation of ions based on mass
B.
The breaking of molecular bonds to form smaller ions
C.
The ionization of molecules
D.
The detection of ions
Solution
Fragmentation in mass spectrometry refers to the breaking of molecular bonds to form smaller ions, which helps in identifying the structure of the original molecule.
Correct Answer:
B
— The breaking of molecular bonds to form smaller ions
Q. In qualitative analysis, what does a positive test for the presence of ammonium ions typically involve?
A.
Formation of a blue complex
B.
Evolution of ammonia gas
C.
Color change with phenolphthalein
D.
Precipitation with barium sulfate
Solution
A positive test for ammonium ions typically involves the evolution of ammonia gas when treated with a strong base, indicating the presence of ammonium.
Q. In qualitative ion analysis, what does the term 'selectivity' refer to?
A.
The ability to detect multiple ions
B.
The ability to distinguish between different ions
C.
The speed of analysis
D.
The cost of the analysis
Solution
Selectivity in qualitative ion analysis refers to the ability to distinguish between different ions in a mixture, which is essential for accurate identification.
Correct Answer:
B
— The ability to distinguish between different ions
Q. In the context of IR spectroscopy, what does the term 'fingerprint region' refer to?
A.
The region above 4000 cm-1
B.
The region between 400-1500 cm-1
C.
The region below 400 cm-1
D.
The region between 1500-2000 cm-1
Solution
The 'fingerprint region' in IR spectroscopy refers to the region between 400-1500 cm-1, where many unique absorption bands occur for different compounds.
Correct Answer:
B
— The region between 400-1500 cm-1
