Which of the following will have the highest wave number for the carbonyl stretch in the IR spectrum?
A)I
B)II
C)III
D)IV

Question

Which of the following will have the highest wave number for the carbonyl stretch in the IR spectrum? 
A)I 
B)II 
C)III 
D)IV

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A carbonyl group with a higher force constant or bond strength will lead to a higher wave number in the IR spectrum. Among the given options, compound I has a more electronegative oxygen attached to the carbonyl carbon, resulting in a stronger C=O bond and a higher wave number in the IR spectrum.

Which of the Following Will Have the Highest Wave Number