Structure determination of trans-cinnamaldehyde by broadband microwave spectroscopy

Phys Chem Chem Phys. 2015 Jun 28;17(24):16080-5. doi: 10.1039/c5cp02582f. Epub 2015 Jun 1.

Abstract

The rotational spectrum of trans-cinnamaldehyde ((E)-3-phenyl-2-propenal, C9H8O) was recorded by chirped-pulse Fourier transform microwave spectroscopy in the frequency range of 2-8.5 GHz. The odourant molecule is the essential component of cinnamon oil and causes the characteristic smell. The rotational signatures of two conformers were observed: s-trans-trans- and s-cis-trans-cinnamaldehyde. The rotational spectra of s-trans-trans-cinnamaldehyde and all of its (13)C-monosubstituted species in natural abundance were assigned and the corresponding carbon backbone structure was determined. The second conformer s-cis-trans-cinnamaldehyde is about 9 kJ mol(-1) higher in energy and could also be identified in the spectrum.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acrolein / analogs & derivatives*
  • Acrolein / chemistry
  • Microwaves*
  • Molecular Structure
  • Quantum Theory
  • Spectrum Analysis
  • Stereoisomerism

Substances

  • Acrolein
  • cinnamaldehyde