Synthesen in der Carotinoid-Reihe

Abstract

The physical properties of the naturally occurring C₄₀H₅₆ carotenes are discussed. The mass spectra of these compounds show cracking patterns which are partially initiated by the structural differences of the end groups. The infra red spectra of all carotenes are very similar. The electronic absorption spectra and the proton magnetic resonance spectra show, however, characteristic differences, which allow the identification of the individual compounds. A procedure for the separation of the carotenes by thin layer chromatography is also described.