The UV and IR spectra of CxF2x+1 CHO (x = 1-4) were investigated using computational and experimental techniques. CxF2x+1CHO (x = 1-4) have broad UV absorption features centered at 300-310 nm. The maximum absorption cross-section increases significantly and shifts slightly to the red with increased length of the CxF2x+1 group: CF3CHO, 3.10 x 10(-20) (300 nm): C2F5CHO, 6.25 x 10(-20) (308 nm): C3F7CHO, 8.96 x 10(-20) (309 nm); and C4F9CHO, 10.9 x 10(-20) (309 nm). IR spectra for CxF2x+1CHO were recorded, calculated. and assigned. Results are discussed with respect to the literature data and to the atmospheric fate of CxF2x+1CHO. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.