The methyl and methoxyl torsional modes and the lattice vibration in the low-frequency Raman spectrum of 1,4-dimethoxybenzene

The low-frequency (10–450 cm^?1) Raman spectra of solid (at 300 K and 130 K) and liquid (at 335 K) 1,4-dimethoxybenzene-d₀ and 1,4-dimethoxybenzene-d₅ have been measured. The methyl nad methoxyl torsional transitions have been identified and the corresponding torsional barriers calculated. Upon deuleration the methyl torsional barrier is reduced by 450 cm^?1, implying a coupling between the methyl torsion and a low-frequency ring mode. As far as the torsions are considered, the internal dynamic situation in 1,4-dimethoxybezene resembles that in amisole. A tentative assignment of the observed lattice bands in given. Certain changes in the spectrum when going from the solid to the melt are attributed to the coexistence of both cis and trans conformers in the liquid state.