A DFT analysis of the molecular structure, vibrational spectra and other molecular properties of 5-nitrouracil and comparison with uracil

Summary

The four unit cells found in the crystals of the biomolecule 5-Nitrouracil were simulated as tetramer forms by density functional calculations. Four tetramer forms were fully optimized. Specific scale factors and scaling equations deduced from uracil molecule were employed in the predicted wavenumbers of 5-nitrouracil. The experimental FT-Raman and FT-IR spectra were recorded in the solid state. Comprehensive interpretation of the experimental FT-IR and FT-Raman spectra of the compound under study in the solid state is based on potential energy distribution. A good reproduction of the experimental wavenumbers is obtained and the % error is very small in the majority of cases. A complete vibrational assignment in the isolated state was also carried out aided by the theoretical harmonic frequency analysis and the results compared with those reported in Ar matrix. The scaled wavenumbers were used in the reassignment of several experimental bands. A comparison between the molecular structure and charge distribution of 5-Nitrouracil with related 5-uracil derivatives was presented. The effect of the nitro substitution in the 5th position of the pyrimidine ring was evaluated.