Boiling Acetone at Reduced Pressure
Description: A flask containing acetone is hooked to an aspirator or vacuum pump. As the pressure inside the flask is lowered, the acetone boils, and its temperature drops.
Source: Shakhashiri, B.Z. Chemical Demonstrations: A Handbook for Teachers of Chemistry
Year: 1983 Vol: 1 Page: 5
Keywords: Evaporation, Endothermic, Acetone, Boiling, Reduced pressure
Rating: 
Hazard: Medium
- Serious eye damage
- Implosion hazard
- Shock hazard
- Flammability hazard
- Acute toxicity hazard – dermal, oral
- Specific organ toxicity – central nervous system
Effectiveness: Average
- Results are observable with guidance
- Moderate failure rate
- Mild effects are seen by audience
- Good connection from demo to course material
- Time to results is medium
Difficulty: Medium
- Simple procedures
- Simple manipulations for most to perform
- Some intermediate steps to results
- Handling or use of toxic chemicals
Safety precautions:
- Gloves required
- Eye protection required
- Use of UL approved three-prong grounded plug and outlet
- ABC fire extinguisher on hand
- Absorbent material on hand
- Avoid open flame during performance
Class: Physical Properties, Phase Changes, Liquids and Solids
Division: General, Physical Chemistry
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