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The Diversity of Linear Conjugated Polyenes and Colours in Nature: Raman Spectroscopy as a Diagnostic Tool
Author(s) -
Maia Lenize F.,
De Oliveira Vanessa E.,
Edwards Howell G. M.,
De Oliveira Luiz Fernando C.
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
chemphyschem
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.016
H-Index - 140
eISSN - 1439-7641
pISSN - 1439-4235
DOI - 10.1002/cphc.202000818
Subject(s) - conjugated system , raman spectroscopy , biomolecule , molecule , delocalized electron , spectroscopy , photochemistry , materials science , chemistry , characterization (materials science) , chemical physics , organic chemistry , nanotechnology , polymer , optics , physics , quantum mechanics
This review is centered on the linear conjugated polyenes, which encompasses chromatic biomolecules, such as carotenoids, polyunsaturated aldehydes and polyolefinic fatty acids. The linear extension of the conjugated double bonds in these molecules is the main feature that determines the spectroscopic properties as light‐absorbing. These classes of compounds are responsible for the yellow, orange, red and purple colors which are observed in their parent flora and fauna in nature. Raman spectroscopy has been used as analytical tool for the characterization of these molecules, mainly due to the strong light scattering produced by the delocalized pi electrons in the carbon chain. In addition, conjugated polyenes are one of the main target molecular species for astrobiology, and we also present a brief discussion of the use of Raman spectroscopy as one of the main analytical tools for the detection of polyenes extra‐terrestrially.