Unknown Organic Chemicals Distinction

In summary, to distinguish between 1-hexene, cyclohexanol, 1-bromobutane, 1-propanol, 2-hexene, 1-hexyne, 2-bromopentane, 3-methyl-3-hexanol, and 3-bromo-3-methylhexane, you can use various chemical tests. Using ZnCl2 in HCl can help distinguish cyclohexanol and 3-methyl-3-hexanol from the others, while using acidic chromate solution can differentiate 1-propanol from the rest by the formation of green chromium (III) ion. It is also important to consider the properties of each compound, such
  • #1
scurry18
12
1

Homework Statement


Use a flow chart to distinguish between: 1-hexene, cyclohexanol, 1-bromobutane, 1-propanol, 2-hexene, 1-hexyne, 2-bromopentane, 3-methyl-3-hexanol, 3-bromo-3-methylhexane by using a positive and negative test by adding other compounds

Homework Equations


N/A

The Attempt at a Solution


I used ZnCl2 in HCl to distinguish cyclohexanol and 3-methyl-3-hexanol from the rest and used the same test to distinguish them from each other.
Then, I used acidic chromate solution to distinguish 1-propanol by the formation of green chromium (III) ion
I just do not know where to find the information on how to separate these compounds (It is not in my book.) Any and all information would be awesome!
 
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  • #2
scurry18 said:
I just do not know where to find the information on how to separate these compounds (It is not in my book.) Any and all information would be awesome!

Is the question asking to distinguish between samples of each of these or to find a way to separate a mixture of them?
 
  • #3
It asks to distinguish between different samples of each. They are NOT mixed together.
 
  • #4
Separate them into groups. You have 3 examples of alcohols, one primary, one secondary and one tertiary. You have 2 examples of olefins, one alpha and one internal. You have one example of an alkyne. Its unsaturation might lead you to believe that it is an olefin but it has a property that olefins don't. You have 3 examples of alkyl halides, one primary, one secondary and one tertiary.

Now, find http://www.docbrown.info/page13/ChemicalTests/ChemicalTests.htm" and you are ready to begin.
 
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1. What is the process for distinguishing unknown organic chemicals?

The process for distinguishing unknown organic chemicals involves several steps. First, the chemical's physical properties such as color, melting point, and solubility are observed. Next, various spectroscopic techniques such as infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry are used to analyze the chemical's structure. Finally, the chemical may undergo various chemical reactions to further confirm its identity.

2. How do you determine the purity of an unknown organic chemical?

The purity of an unknown organic chemical can be determined through techniques such as chromatography and melting point analysis. Chromatography separates the different components of a sample based on their different affinities for the stationary and mobile phases, allowing for the assessment of purity. Melting point analysis involves heating the chemical and observing the temperature at which it melts, which can indicate impurities if the melting point is lower than the expected value.

3. Can unknown organic chemicals be identified without using sophisticated equipment?

While sophisticated equipment such as spectroscopy and chromatography are commonly used to identify unknown organic chemicals, there are other techniques that can be used without such equipment. These include simple chemical tests such as the reaction with acids or bases, as well as physical tests such as the observation of color changes or odor. However, these methods may not provide as accurate or complete identification as more advanced techniques.

4. What are some common challenges in distinguishing unknown organic chemicals?

There are several challenges that may arise when trying to distinguish unknown organic chemicals. One common challenge is the presence of impurities, which can make it difficult to accurately assess the chemical's properties and structure. Another challenge is the similarity of the chemical to other known substances, making it necessary to use multiple techniques to confirm its identity. Additionally, the complexity of the chemical's structure may also pose a challenge in the identification process.

5. Can the distinction of unknown organic chemicals be automated?

The process of distinguishing unknown organic chemicals can be partially automated, but it still requires human interpretation and decision-making. Sophisticated equipment such as mass spectrometers and NMR machines can be programmed to perform certain analyses, but the interpretation of the results and final identification must be done by a scientist. Additionally, the complexity and variability of organic chemicals make it difficult to fully automate the distinction process.

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