How would you purify decanoic acid contaminated with biphenyl? what method and solvent.Please help me
Just as a quick guess so check me out on this. I would think that biphenyl would not be very soluble in base so as first try I would dissolve in NaOH solution (which should form the sodium salt of daecanoic acid), filter, the filtrate will contain the Na salt of the acid, the solid remaining behind is biphenyl. Neutralize the salt with acid to regenerate the decanoic acid. Voila!
To purify decanoic acid contaminated with biphenyl, you can use a process called solvent extraction. Here's how you can do it:
1. Set up a distillation apparatus: Start by assembling a distillation apparatus, which typically includes a round-bottom flask, a condenser, and a collection flask. Make sure the apparatus is clean and dry.
2. Add the mixture to the round-bottom flask: Take the decanoic acid contaminated with biphenyl and add it to the round-bottom flask. Ensure that the volume of the mixture is suitable for the size of your apparatus.
3. Select a suitable solvent: In the case of decanoic acid contaminated with biphenyl, a common solvent used for extraction is a non-polar solvent such as hexane or diethyl ether. These solvents can effectively dissolve the biphenyl, leaving the decanoic acid behind.
4. Add the solvent to the mixture: Add a sufficient amount of the chosen solvent to the round-bottom flask containing the mixture of decanoic acid and biphenyl. The exact amount will depend on the ratio of the two compounds and the solubility characteristics.
5. Mix and separate: After adding the solvent, gently mix the contents of the flask to allow for proper contact between the solvent and the mixture. You can do this by swirling or shaking the flask. Allow the mixture to settle, as biphenyl and decanoic acid will separate into distinct layers due to differences in their solubilities.
6. Collect the solvent layer: Carefully remove the upper solvent layer, which now contains the dissolved biphenyl. You can do this by using a separating funnel or a pipette, ensuring that the lower layer containing the decanoic acid is left undisturbed.
7. Repeat the extraction: If needed, you can repeat the process of adding fresh solvent, mixing, and separating to further increase the purity of decanoic acid. Multiple extractions can enhance the removal of biphenyl.
8. Concentrate the solution: After performing the desired number of extractions, you can concentrate the solvent layer containing the extracted biphenyl. This can be done using techniques like rotary evaporation or simple distillation, depending on the boiling points of the compounds involved.
By following these steps, you can effectively purify decanoic acid contaminated with biphenyl using a solvent extraction method. Remember to exercise caution and follow appropriate safety guidelines when working with volatile or potentially hazardous compounds.