RP5: Distillation of a reaction product

Question 1

What is distillation?

Answer 1

Liquid is heated to create a vapour which is cooled by a condenser, causing the gas to condense into a liquid and drip into a separate flask.

The species separate due to relative volatilities and boiling points.

Question 2

What equipment is used for distillation?

Answer 2

• Pear shaped flask
• Liebig condenser
• Still head
• Stopper
• Receiver adaptor
• Thermometer
• Collection Vessel

Question 3

Oxidising agents are often used in distillation. What is an oxidising agent?

Answer 3

Oxidise other chemicals by receiving electrons from them.

Oxidising agents are reduced themselves.

Question 4

Why are anti-bumping granules used in distillation?

Answer 4

To allow smooth boiling - preventing bubbles caused by vapour to cause upwards splashing in the flask.

Question 5

How do you isolate a liquid product?

Answer 5

You can use a separating funnel to isolate the organic layer from the aqueous layer, Shake the flask. Allow the layers to separate. Then open the tap and run off one layer into a separate container.

Question 6

What are some common potential hazards and risks in the laboratory?

Answer 6

Bunsen Burner
Chemicals
Glassware