How to Combine Two FTIR Graphs in One Graph on GraphPad Prism | Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction:

Why Combine Two FTIR Graphs in GraphPad Prism?

Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is widely used in scientific research to analyze the molecular composition of substances. Combining two FTIR graphs into one provides a comparative view, enhancing the analysis by showing overlapping peaks and differences. In this guide, you will learn how to combine two FTIR graphs in one graph using GraphPad Prism, a powerful data visualization tool.

What You Will Learn:

• Why combining FTIR graphs is useful
• Step-by-step process to combine two FTIR graphs in GraphPad Prism
• Tips for customizing and enhancing your graph
• Free download link for an FTIR Excel file for practice

Why Use GraphPad Prism for FTIR Graphs?:

GraphPad Prism is an advanced data analysis and graphing software known for its user-friendly interface and high-quality output. It allows scientists and researchers to visualize complex data effectively. Combining two FTIR graphs in GraphPad Prism lets you compare different samples or conditions efficiently.

FTIR

Step 1: Prepare Your Data 

To combine two FTIR graphs, start by preparing your data. Make sure your data is organized in Excel with the wavenumber values in one column and corresponding absorbance values in another. If you don’t have sample data, download the FTIR Excel file from this post.

Step 2: Import Data into GraphPad Prism 

1. Open GraphPad Prism and create a new project.
2. Choose 'XY' as the graph type for FTIR data.
3. Import your Excel data by selecting ‘Import Data’ and locating your file.
4. Ensure both FTIR datasets are imported as separate columns.

Step 3: Combine the Graphs

1. In GraphPad Prism, select both datasets to display them on the same graph.
2. Use the 'Format Graph' option to customize the colors and line styles.
3. Adjust the axis labels and title to make the graph more informative.

Step 4: Customize and Enhance the Graph

Change Line Styles: Differentiate the two FTIR graphs by selecting distinct line styles or colors.

Add Legends: Clearly label each graph to avoid confusion.

Adjust Axis Labels: Ensure that the x-axis is labeled as 'Wavenumber (cm⁻¹)' and the y-axis as 'Absorbance.'

Exporting the Graph: Save your combined FTIR graph in high resolution for publication or presentation.

Tips for Better FTIR Graph Comparison

• Use contrasting colors for better visibility.
• Normalize the data if comparing samples with different intensities.
• Overlay the graphs using semi-transparent lines to highlight overlapping peaks.

Download FTIR Excel File 

To help you get started, download the sample FTIR Excel file below:

Download FTIR Excel File

Download GraphPad Prism Data File

Watch the Video Tutorial

For a step-by-step visual guide, watch the YouTube tutorial:

How to Combine Two FTIR Graphs in One Graph on GraphPad Prism | Step-by-Step Guide

Conclusion 

Combining two FTIR graphs in GraphPad Prism is a powerful technique for comparative analysis. By following this step-by-step guide, you can effectively visualize and interpret your FTIR data. Don't forget to download the example Excel file and watch the video tutorial for a complete learning experience.