molecular vibrations

Molecular vibrations are the small movements of atoms within a molecule, where they oscillate around their equilibrium positions. These vibrations include stretching (atoms moving closer or farther apart) and bending (angles changing between bonds). The energy from these movements corresponds to specific wavelengths of infrared light, enabling scientists to identify molecules and analyze their structures. Essentially, molecules are not static; their atoms are constantly vibrating, and these vibrations play a crucial role in how molecules absorb, emit, and interact with energy.