What is the effect of the following on the separation of the mixture(hexane and toluene)?
a. A soluble, nonvolatile impurity
b. a decrease in barometric pressure
c. an increase in barometric pressure
d. rapid heating rate
To determine the effect of these factors on the separation of the mixture (hexane and toluene), we need to consider the principles of distillation. Distillation is a separation technique that exploits the differences in boiling points of the components in a mixture.
a. A soluble, nonvolatile impurity:
If the mixture contains a soluble, nonvolatile impurity, it will not affect the separation significantly. Distillation relies on the differences in volatilities (boiling points) between components, and a nonvolatile impurity will not vaporize during distillation. Therefore, it will not affect the separation process.
b. A decrease in barometric pressure:
A decrease in barometric pressure reduces the boiling points of both hexane and toluene. Since distillation relies on the different boiling points of the components, reducing the pressure decreases the temperature required to reach the boiling point. This can lead to a lower separation efficiency since the difference in boiling points between hexane and toluene might be diminished.
c. An increase in barometric pressure:
Conversely, an increase in barometric pressure raises the boiling points of both hexane and toluene. The increased pressure requires higher temperatures to reach the boiling point. This can enhance the separation efficiency as the boiling point difference between hexane and toluene is increased.
d. Rapid heating rate:
A rapid heating rate generally results in decreased separation efficiency. Distillation relies on the separation of components based on boiling points, and a rapid heating rate can cause incomplete vaporization and mixing of the components. Slower heating allows for proper vaporization and separation of the components.
Overall, a soluble, nonvolatile impurity would have a minimal effect on separation. However, changes in barometric pressure and heating rate can have significant impacts on the separation efficiency of hexane and toluene during distillation.