Adding coordinates to an infrared trace does not by itself establish that two physical spectral bands can be resolved.
Keep resolution and data interval distinct
FTIR acquisition resolution and the interval between reported data points are distinct settings. Optical-path acquisition and processing affect the spectral result; inserting more coordinates does not by itself supply new resolving information. The breadth of actual sample bands also matters to a separation question. Primary reference: Shimadzu: FTIR resolution and data interval.
A displayed trace can look smoother because it has more plotted points. Smoothness is not proof that adjacent features have been independently observed. Retain the resolution definition and processing information together with the exported coordinate grid.
Review a fictional two-band question
Imagine a worksheet asking about bands centered at 1000 and 1003 cm^-1, separated by 3 cm^-1. The file lists points 1 cm^-1 apart and its acquisition record states a resolution parameter of 6 cm^-1. Those labels alone do not demonstrate that the two sample bands are resolved.
Interpolating the same file to points 0.5 cm^-1 apart doubles the coordinate density without adding acquired optical-path information. It does not turn the 6 cm^-1 acquisition label into a 0.5 cm^-1 resolving capability. No universal peak-separation threshold is asserted by these invented numbers.
Ask for evidence of the observed features
Make columns for the two proposed band locations, their separation, acquisition resolution, data interval, processing and the observed shape. Keep the original trace available so interpolation is not mistaken for the measurement. Label fitted or inferred peaks separately from directly demonstrated separation.
To answer whether two bands are resolved, examine the applicable resolution criterion, signal shape and method evidence. A reviewer should be able to identify the physical basis rather than count exported rows. This worksheet is a distinction between quantities, not a recommendation for a particular resolution setting or a validated identity test.
Customer Questions
Does a denser exported grid add optical-path data?
Interpolation does not add acquired information.
Are the fictional two bands proved resolved?
The listed labels do not prove separation.
Is the 3 cm^-1 gap a universal limit?
It is only this hypothetical question.
Primary References
These references support the technical principles discussed in this guide. The worked examples and review questions are educational.
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