To extract aniline (C6H5NH2) from a solution of chloroform, what other solvent would you use?
To extract aniline (C6H5NH2) from a solution of chloroform, a suitable solvent that can be used is water. Aniline is more soluble in water than in chloroform, so it can be extracted from the chloroform solution by adding water and shaking the mixture vigorously. The aniline will dissolve in the water layer, while the chloroform will remain in the organic layer. The two layers can then be separated, and the aniline can be isolated from the aqueous layer by further purification methods.
I thought you would use an aqueous acid
You are correct, using an aqueous acid solution is a more common method to extract aniline from chloroform. Aniline is a weak base, so it can be protonated by an acid to form a water-soluble salt. One commonly used acid for this purpose is hydrochloric acid (HCl). By adding an aqueous solution of HCl to the chloroform containing aniline, the aniline will be converted into its hydrochloride salt (C6H5NH3Cl), which is soluble in water. The chloroform layer can then be separated, and the aqueous layer containing the aniline hydrochloride can be treated with a base (such as sodium hydroxide) to regenerate the free aniline.
To extract aniline (C6H5NH2) from a solution of chloroform, you would need to choose a solvent that can preferentially extract aniline from chloroform. The selected solvent should have a higher affinity for aniline compared to chloroform. One suitable solvent for this purpose is water.
Here's how you can perform the extraction process:
1. Start by adding water to the solution of chloroform and aniline. The addition of water will allow the aniline to dissolve preferentially into the aqueous phase, as it is more soluble in water than in chloroform.
2. Shake the mixture vigorously to ensure thorough mixing. This step helps in facilitating the transfer of aniline from the chloroform phase to the aqueous phase.
3. Allow the mixture to settle. Over time, the layers will separate, with the denser chloroform layer forming at the bottom and the aqueous layer on top.
4. Carefully separate the chloroform and the aqueous layer. You can do this by using a separating funnel or by carefully pouring off one layer while leaving the other behind.
5. Collect the aqueous layer containing aniline and set it aside.
6. To further purify the aniline, you can perform additional extraction or purification steps as per your requirement. For example, you can use organic solvents such as diethyl ether or toluene, which have a high affinity for aniline, and perform multiple extractions to separate impurities.
Remember, when working with chemicals, always follow proper safety precautions and consult reliable sources or experts for advice specific to your situation.