Description: Hexane and ethanol are mixed in equal portions (with a little iodine to increase visibility). A few drops of water are added to the solution, and two liquid phases are produced.

Source: Randy Wolff

Year: 1976 Vol: N/A Page: N/A

Keywords: Hexane, Phase separation, Ethanol, Water

Ratings:

Hazard: High

Flammable liquids
Skin irritation
Reproductive toxicity
Specific target organ toxicity – single exposure, central nervous system
Specific target organ toxicity – repeated exposure, nervous system
Aspiration hazard
Short-term (acute) aquatic hazard
Long-term (chronic) aquatic hazard
Acute toxicity hazard – oral, eyes
Eye irritation

Effectiveness: Good

Results are clearly observable without guidance
Low failure rate
Good connection from demo to course material
Time to results is low

Difficulty: Medium

Use of organic chemicals
Simple procedures
Simple manipulations for most to perform

Safety Precautions:

Gloves required
Eye protection required
No open flames during performance
ABC fire extinguisher on hand
Absorbent materials on hand
Chemically resistant surface recommended
Prevent release of reagents to the environment
Perform in a well ventilated area
Avoid exposure to mists, droplets, and vapors

Class: Intermolecular Forces, Solubility, Property of Solutions, Equilibrium of Chemical Systems

Division: General, Physical Chemistry

Home| General Chemistry Demonstrations

Return to Physical Chemistry Demonstrations