Hypothetically, you have determined from TLC analysis of your final product that

Question

Hypothetically, you have determined from TLC analysis of your final product that your reaction did not go to completion, and you have isolated a mixture of the two alkene isomers. Your next task is to determine, quantitatively, the exact ratio of trans- to cis-product that you have obtained. You have access to IR and NMR spectrophotometers. Which instrument would you use to perform this task, and why? Describe specifically how you would differentiate the isomers on your instrument of choice, and how you would determine the ratio. I have been pondering for 20 minutes. I could really use some help. Any help will be truly appreciated.

Explanation / Answer

I would go with the NMR spec. Typically HYdrogen NMR can show the ratio of trans to cis. It's difficult to distinguish but there should be some chemical shift of the hydrogens depending on cis or trans. Whereas with IR cis-trans are very similar that the spectrum may have no difference.

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