Polarized infrared and Raman spectra of a CsHSO4 single crystal

The polarized absorption infrared (IR) and polarized Raman spectra of a CsHSO₄ single crystal at room temperature are presented and discussed in relation to the X-ray crystal structure. Breakdown of the selection rules for the X-ray determined C_2h factor group is observed. The vibrational factor group appears to be C₂. This implies C₁ site symmetry for the SO²⁻₄ ions. The polarization features of the HSO⁻₄ ion vibrations are predicted assuming that the longest S---OH bond vibrates independently of the SO₃ group vibrations. The ABC structure of the IR and Raman band arising from the νOH stretching vibration is explained on the basis of Fermi resonance.