Is IR spectroscopy applicable for all compounds?

The change in dipole moment is first and foremost criteria to get IR spectrum of any compound. The compounds which give rise to change in the dipole moment upon absorption of IR radiation, will give IR spectra. The compounds which do not give rise to change in the dipole moment upon absorption of IR radiation, will not give IR spectra. For example, the symmetrical stretching of C=C bond in ethylene will not produce any change in dipole moment of the molecule. Hence, this mode of vibration is IR inactive. This also tell why trans-dichloroethane does not show C=C stretching whereas cis-dichloroethane shows C=C stretching. However, both cis and trans-dichloroethane show C-H and C-Cl stretching upon IR absorption. Carbon monoxide and Iodine chloride (I-Cl) show IR absorption but hydrogen (H2), Nitrogen (N2), Oxygen (O2), Chlorine (Cl2) and other symmetrical diatomic molecules do not show IR absorption. A large change in dipole moment gives rise to strong absorption.

In summary, only those compounds give rise to IR absorption or IR spectra which have-

1.      Permanent dipole moment

2.      Which show change in dipole moment upon absorption of IR radiation

3.      Which do not possess center of symmetry