In: Chemistry
Assuming the solvent selected has a boiling point below the melting point of the solid, which factor is important for successful recrystallization?
A. specific heat
B. boiling point
C. Melting point
D. Solubility
Ans is (D) Solubility
The boiling point of the solvent should be lower than the melting point of the compound to be recrystallized. Otherwise, the solid melts before the solvent boils and can separate as oily droplets that are difficult to get into solution. This process is called “oiling out.”A successful recrystallization depends on the proper choice of solvent. The compound must be soluble in the hot solvent and insoluble in the same solvent when it is cold
In choosing a solvent, the bigger the difference between hot solubility and cold solubility, the more product will be recoverable from a recrystallization.