Gas phase UV and IR absorption spectra of CxF2x+1CHO (x = 1–4)

The UV and IR spectra of CxF2x+1CHO (x = 1–4) were investigated using computational and experimental techniques. CxF2x+1CHO (x = 1–4) have broad UV absorption features centered at 300–310 nm. The maximum absorption cross-section increases significantly and shifts slightly to the red with increased length of the CxF2x+1 group: CF3CHO, 3.10 × 10−20 (300 nm); C2F5CHO, 6.25 × 10−20 (308 nm); C3F7CHO, 8.96 × 10−20 (309 nm); and C4F9CHO, 10.9 × 10−20 (309 nm). IR spectra for CxF2x+1CHO were recorded, calculated, and assigned. Results are discussed with respect to the literature data and to the atmospheric fate of CxF2x+1CHO.