7.11: Testing Solvents for Crystallization
- Page ID
- 93209
Place \(100 \: \text{mg}\) of the solid to be crystallized in a test tube and add \(3 \: \text{mL}\) solvent. Flick the tube to mix the contents. If the solid is soluble, the solvent will not work for crystallization. If the solid appears to be insoluble, the solvent may work. |
Bring the solid suspension to a boil on a steam bath or boiling water bath. If the solid dissolves when hot, the solvent may work for crystallization. If it remains insoluble when hot, the solvent will not work. |
Allow the hot solution to cool to room temperature (scratch the sides of the test tube to initiate crystallization if necessary). Place the solution in an ice bath for 10-20 minutes. If large quantities of crystals return when cool, the solvent should work for crystallization. If crystals do not return, the solvent will not work. |