Infrared spectra of benzene ices: Reexamination and comparison of two recent papers and the literature

Infrared spectroscopic results on benzene (C6H6) ices from two recent papers, one published here, are compared to each other and to literatu r e results from 60 years ago. Qualitative and quantitative differences are described, partly in terms of spectral resolution, and errors in one paper are identified that, once corrected , could bring the two recent publications into agreement with each other. A solution is provided for an unexplained disagreement with the literature noted by the authors of one paper. It is concluded that the only accurate, extensive set of IR absorption coefficients, band strengths, and optical constants now available for amorphous and crystalline benzene are those recently published here by the author and a colleague. Suggestions ar e made for future work to change this situation.

Automated summary

This study compares the infrared spectroscopic results on benzene ices from two recent papers and discusses the qualitative and quantitative differences between them. It identifies errors in one paper that, once corrected, could align the results with the other paper. A solution is provided for an unexplained disagreement with previous literature. The study concludes that the most accurate and extensive set of IR absorption coefficients, band strengths, and optical constants for amorphous and crystalline benzene is presented in the recent publications by the authors. Suggestions are made for future work to address this issue.