Wednesday, November 1, 2023

"Quantitative effect of temperature on Equilibrium Constant by using Van't Hoff Equation"

"Quantitative effect of temperature on Equilibrium Constant by using Van't Hoff Equation"

Use the following equation to draw the relationship between temperature and equilibrium constant;

Sunday, October 29, 2023

Relationship between Homogeneous Equilibrium and the Law of Mass Action (Part C)

 Relationship between Homogeneous Equilibrium and the Law of Mass Action (Part C)::

Case C- In gaseous reaction when no of moles decreases:

To understand this case, suppose the formation of ammonia by Haber Process

Friday, October 27, 2023

Relationship between Homogeneous Equilibrium and the Law of Mass Action (Part B)

 

"Relationship between Homogeneous Equilibrium and the Law of Mass Action (Part B)"

Case B- In gaseous reaction when no of moles increases:

Suppose the decomposition of PCl5

"Relationship between Homogeneous Equilibrium and the Law of Mass Action (Part A)"

 

"Relationship between Homogeneous Equilibrium and the Law of Mass Action (Part A)"

The Law of Mass Action is a fundamental principle that governs the equilibrium of a chemical reaction. It states that the rate of a chemical reaction is directly proportional to the product of the concentrations (or activities) of the reactants, each raised to the power of their respective coefficients in the balanced chemical equation. This law applies to both homogeneous and heterogeneous equilibria.

Thursday, October 26, 2023

“Exploring Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Equilibrium in Chemical Reactions”

 

“Exploring Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Equilibrium in Chemical Reactions”

Introduction:

Chemical equilibrium is a pivotal concept in the realm of chemistry, describing the balance between reactants and products in a reaction. This equilibrium can be further classified into two main types:

  • Homogeneous equilibrium
  • Heterogeneous equilibrium

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

"Deriving the Units of chemical equilibrium"


"Deriving the Units of chemical equilibrium"

Introduction

Equilibrium constants play a crucial role in chemical reactions, providing insights into the balance between reactants and products at a given point in a reaction. These constants are indispensable in the field of chemistry, aiding researchers and scientists in predicting reaction outcomes and understanding the dynamics of chemical systems.

Tuesday, October 24, 2023

"The Relationship Between Different Equilibrium Constants: Kp, Kc, Kx, and Kn"

 

"The Relationship Between Different Equilibrium Constants: Kp, Kc, Kx, and Kn"

Introduction:

Chemical equilibrium is a fascinating topic in the world of chemistry, where the balance between reactants and products in a chemical reaction is carefully maintained. To understand and quantify this balance, chemists rely on various equilibrium constants, such as Kp, Kc, Kx, and Kn. In this article,

Monday, October 23, 2023

"Understanding the Law of Mass Action in Chemical Equilibrium"

 

"Understanding the Law of Mass Action in Chemical Equilibrium"

Introduction:

In the realm of chemistry, equilibrium constants play a crucial role in determining the extent to which a chemical reaction proceeds. Among these constants, the Law of Mass Action is a fundamental principle that governs the behavior of reactants and products in a chemical equilibrium. 

Saturday, October 21, 2023

Demystifying Chemical Equilibrium: Dynamic vs. Static Equilibrium

 

Demystifying Chemical Equilibrium: Dynamic vs. Static Equilibrium

Chemical equilibrium is a fundamental concept in chemistry that underpins the way chemical reactions work. It's not just about reaching a standstill but rather achieving a delicate balance between opposing reactions. 

Monday, October 9, 2023

"Determination of nickel ions Ni²⁺ by using EDTA with the help of back titration"

 

Experiment # 1: Determination of nickel ions Ni²⁺ by using EDTA with the help of back titration

Objective:

The objective of this experiment is to determine the concentration of Ni² ions in a given solution through a back titration technique using ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) as a complexometric titrant while employing magnesium sulfate as a masking agent.

Thursday, August 17, 2023

"Understanding Syn and Anti Addition in Chemical Reactions with Examples"

 

Title: Understanding Syn and Anti Addition in Chemical Reactions with Examples

Introduction

Chemical reactions play a vital role in the world of organic chemistry, enabling the transformation of various compounds into new substances. Among the many types of reactions, addition reactions hold significant importance, especially when it comes to understanding stereochemistry. 

Monday, August 14, 2023

"Deciphering Stereospecificity and Stereoselectivity in Chemical Reactions"

 

Title: Deciphering Stereospecificity and Stereoselectivity in Chemical Reactions

Introduction

In the captivating realm of organic chemistry, the concepts of stereospecificity and stereoselectivity play a pivotal role in shaping molecular landscapes and influencing reaction outcomes. These terms may sound intricate, but they hold the keys to understanding how the three-dimensional arrangement of atoms impacts the behavior of molecules during chemical transformations. 

Thursday, August 10, 2023

"Stereoisomers Decoded: Navigating Enantiomers, Diastereomers, and Meso Compounds"

 

"Stereoisomers Decoded: Navigating Enantiomers, Diastereomers, and Meso Compounds"

In the fascinating realm of organic chemistry, isomerism introduces us to the intriguing concept of molecules with the same molecular formula but distinct structural arrangements. Stereoisomers are a subset of isomers that have identical connectivity of atoms, yet differ in their spatial arrangement. 

Monday, August 7, 2023

"Unveiling the Enigmatic World of Chiral Resolution: Crafting Molecular Symmetry"

 

Unveiling the Enigmatic World of Chiral Resolution: Crafting Molecular Symmetry

Introduction

Step into the captivating realm of chemistry, where molecules dance to the rhythm of chirality, giving birth to enantiomers – mysterious mirror-image twins that share the same chemical makeup but possess distinct behaviors. 

Friday, August 4, 2023

"Mastering Fischer Projections: Drawing Stereochemical Compounds with Ease"

 

Title: Mastering Fischer Projections: Drawing Stereochemical Compounds with Ease

Introduction:

Welcome to the fascinating world of stereochemistry in organic chemistry! Understanding the spatial arrangement of atoms within molecules is vital for comprehending the uniqueness of different compounds. Fischer projections, a powerful tool in this realm, allow us to depict three-dimensional structures on a two-dimensional plane. 

Wednesday, August 2, 2023

"Unraveling the Mysteries of Naming Enantiomers: The R/S System of Stereochemistry"

Unraveling the Mysteries of Naming Enantiomers: The R/S System of Stereochemistry

Have you ever wondered how chemists distinguish between the mirror-image forms of chiral molecules? If so, you've stumbled upon the captivating world of stereochemistry. In this fascinating branch of organic chemistry, we find ourselves exploring the spatial arrangements of atoms in molecules, particularly when they possess chiral centers. 

Friday, July 28, 2023

"The Enchanting World of Chirality: Exploring Mirror-Image Molecules"

 

"The Enchanting World of Chirality: Exploring Mirror-Image Molecules"

Introduction:

Step into the captivating realm of chirality, where molecules embrace a magical property that sets them apart in the most enchanting way. In this mesmerizing journey through the world of chirality and enantiomers, we will unveil the secrets of mirror-image molecules and their spellbinding properties. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of chirality and dive into the captivating dance of enantiomers.

Chirality and Chiral Centers:

Unlocking the Magic Chirality is like a hidden treasure within molecules, and it all centers around the concept of "handedness." Just like your hands are mirror images that can't be perfectly overlapped, chiral molecules possess two forms, like left and right gloves, that can't be superimposed. These magical molecules have a chiral center, typically an asymmetric carbon atom, which bonds to four different groups, making it a pivotal player in the world of chirality.

An asymmetric carbon is a carbon atom that is bonded to four different groups. This is indicated by an asterisk (*). An asymmetric carbon is also known as a chirality center. An asymmetric carbon is just one kind of chirality center. A chirality center also belongs to a broader group known as stereocenters.

An antibiotic with a broad spectrum is tetracycline. How many of the tetracycline's carbons are asymmetric? Find every hybridised carbon in tetracycline first.  There are nine sp3 hybridised carbons in tetracycline. Due to the fact that they are not attached to four separate groups, four of them (1C, 2C, 5C, and 8C) are not asymmetric carbons. Consequently, tetracycline has five asymmetric carbons.

Another examples are;


Enantiomers:

The Fascinating Mirror-Image Twins Meet the mirror-image twins of the molecular world – enantiomers! Enantiomers are two chiral molecules that share the same formula and connectivity but have opposite spatial arrangements. They are like the charming protagonists of a captivating story, fascinating chemists with their identical properties, except for one crucial difference – their interaction with other chiral entities. Prepare to be amazed as we unravel the unique properties that make enantiomers a duo of captivating molecules. Two distinct stereoisomers can exist for a molecule having one asymmetric carbon, such as 2-bromobutane. The two isomers can be compared to the left and right hands.

When you place a mirror between the two isomers, you'll see that they are mirror pictures of one another. Since the two stereoisomers are distinct molecules, their mirror images cannot be superimposed.

Let's delve into the fascinating world of chirality and enantiomers with a hands-on approach. Imagine building ball-and-stick models using four different colored balls to represent the distinct groups bonded to an asymmetric carbon. As you layer the model together, you'll begin to see why the two isomers of 2-bromobutane are not identical.

Now, let's unravel the term "enantiomer," derived from the Greek word "enantion," meaning "opposite." Enantiomers are molecules whose mirror-images cannot be perfectly overlapped, just like your left and right hands. In this magical dance of mirror-image molecules, 2-bromobutane takes the stage with two enantiomers, both being stereoisomers.

When a molecule possesses a nonsuperimposable mirror image, we call it a chiral molecule. Each enantiomer of 2-bromobutane exhibits this captivating quality. They are like identical twins, yet somehow different from one another in their interaction with other chiral entities.

On the other hand, an achiral molecule allows for a superimposable mirror image, making it just like a regular object in a mirror. Picture mentally rotating an achiral molecule anticlockwise; you'll notice that it aligns perfectly with its mirror counterpart, proving their identical nature.

This delightful exploration shows us that chirality is a captivating concept that brings uniqueness and symmetry to the molecular world. Now, with the magic of ball-and-stick models, you can witness firsthand the mesmerizing dance of enantiomers and grasp the beauty of chirality in organic chemistry.

Note that:

 The mirror image of a chiral molecule cannot be superimposed.

The mirror image of an achiral molecule can be superimposed.

Naming and Representing Enantiomers:

The R/S Notation Every good story has its own language, and the world of enantiomers is no different. We'll teach you the R/S notation, a secret code that helps chemists name and represent these mirror-image molecules. Learn how to decipher the code and give names to these captivating twins, making them come alive in the minds of chemists around the world.

The Relationship Between Enantiomers:

A Dance of Opposites Just like dance partners moving in harmony, enantiomers share an intricate relationship. We'll explore their enchanting dance, where they spin around each other, unable to separate from their unique bond. Discover how these mirror-image molecules are like yin and yang, forever connected in a captivating cosmic dance of molecular symmetry.

Conclusion:

Embracing the Magic of Chirality and Enantiomers as we bid farewell to the captivating world of chirality and enantiomers, we hope you've been entranced by the magical dance of mirror-image molecules. Chirality is not just a property of molecules; it's a captivating concept that holds the key to understanding the subtle differences in the molecular world. Enantiomers, the twin protagonists of our story, exemplify the beauty and intricacy of the molecular universe. So, dear reader, embrace the magic of chirality, and let the spellbinding allure of enantiomers ignite your passion for the captivating wonders of chemistry.


 



Thursday, July 27, 2023

"Unlocking the Mysterious World of Stereochemistry: The 3D Secrets of Organic Molecules"

 

"Unlocking the Mysterious World of Stereochemistry: The 3D Secrets of Organic Molecules"

Understanding the Importance of Stereochemistry in Organic Molecules

The world of organic molecules is incredibly diverse, and their unique properties often arise from their specific three-dimensional structures. These spatial arrangements can significantly influence the chemical, physical, and biological properties of compounds. By analyzing stereochemistry, chemists gain insights into the behavior and reactivity of organic molecules, enabling them to design new drugs, optimize reactions, and understand complex biological processes.

Chirality and Enantiomers (The Mirror-Image Mystique)

Picture yourself standing before a mirror, observing your reflection—a perfect copy, right? Not so fast! In stereochemistry, we encounter a captivating concept known as chirality which refers to the property of an organic molecule to exist in two mirror-image forms known as enantiomers. Imagine your hands as enantiomers – they are mirror images of each other, but you cannot superimpose them perfectly. Enantiomers have identical physical and chemical properties, except for their interaction with other chiral entities. The word "chiral" originates from the Greek word "cheir," meaning "hand," a perfect fit as this property is all about the magic of hands.

Chirality plays a crucial role in various fields, including pharmacology. Many drugs are chiral molecules, and their enantiomers can have drastically different effects on the human body. For example, one enantiomer might be therapeutically effective, while its mirror image may cause harmful side effects. This phenomenon underscores the importance of isolating and understanding enantiomers in drug development.


Achiral and Chiral Molecules

Chirality is not limited to objects; molecules can also possess this intriguing property. One of the primary reasons a molecule becomes chiral is the presence of an asymmetric carbon, a special type of carbon bonded to four distinct groups. This fascinating feature distinguishes chiral molecules from their non-chiral counterparts.

Identifying an asymmetric carbon is like spotting a star in the night sky—it stands out amidst the molecular landscape. Take 4-octanol, for instance, where the starred carbon is an asymmetric carbon due to its bonding with four unique groups: hydrogen, hydroxyl (OH), and two carbon chains. Interestingly, the differences in these groups need not be right next to the asymmetric carbon. Even when slightly removed, as seen in 2,4-dimethylhexane, the carbon remains asymmetric, bonded to methyl, ethyl, isobutyl, and hydrogen groups.





However, not all carbons can claim the title of an asymmetric carbon. Only sp3 hybridized carbons can fit the bill, as they allow for four distinct groups to attach. Carbon atoms with sp2 or sp hybridization cannot achieve this level of chirality.

Chirality centers extend beyond carbon atoms. Elements like nitrogen and phosphorus can also serve as chirality centers if they bond with four different atoms or groups. In essence, an asymmetric carbon is just one variety of a chirality center, which belongs to the broader family of stereocenters.

In the vast realm of organic chemistry, chirality centers, like celestial stars, add a touch of wonder and intrigue, revealing the astonishing complexity and diversity of molecules.

Not all organic molecules are chiral. Achiral molecules lack chirality and, therefore, do not have enantiomers. These molecules possess a plane of symmetry, meaning that they can be superimposed on their mirror images. In contrast, chiral molecules do not have a plane of symmetry and have distinct left-handed (S) and right-handed (R) configurations. Chiral molecules can exist as single enantiomers (optically pure) or as a mixture of both enantiomers (racemic mixture).

Stereochemistry in Organic Reactions: SN1 and SN2 Reactions

Stereochemistry plays a pivotal role in understanding reaction mechanisms, such as nucleophilic substitution (SN) reactions. SN1 and SN2 reactions are two common types of nucleophilic substitution, and their outcomes are influenced by the stereochemistry of the reactants.

In SN1 reactions, the leaving group departs first, creating a carbocation intermediate. The nucleophile then attacks the carbocation, resulting in the formation of both R and S enantiomers. As a result, SN1 reactions often yield a racemic mixture.

On the other hand, SN2 reactions occur through a single concerted step, where the nucleophile directly displaces the leaving group. The stereochemistry of the reactant determines the outcome of the reaction. If the reactant is chiral, the reaction will proceed with inversion of configuration, resulting in the formation of the opposite enantiomer. This characteristic makes SN2 reactions valuable for creating pure enantiomers.

Diels-Alder Stereochemistry

The Diels-Alder reaction is a powerful tool in organic synthesis and has interesting stereochemical implications. It involves the cycloaddition of a conjugated diene and a dienophile, forming a cyclic product. The stereochemistry of the dienophile and diene dictates the stereochemistry of the product. When both reactants are achiral, the product will be achiral as well. However, if either or both of the reactants are chiral, the product will be chiral.

Stereochemistry of Amino Acids

Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, and their stereochemistry is of utmost importance in understanding protein structure and function. Amino acids are chiral molecules, and most naturally occurring proteins consist of L-amino acids. The stereochemistry of amino acids influences protein folding, enzyme catalysis, and the interaction of proteins with other biomolecules.

Conclusion

Stereochemistry is a captivating aspect of organic chemistry that enriches our understanding of the three-dimensional world of molecules. Its significance extends to drug development, asymmetric synthesis, and the intricate processes of life. By grasping the basics of chirality, enantiomers, and the stereochemistry of organic compounds and reactions, scientists can unlock a world of possibilities in the realm of organic chemistry and beyond.



Friday, July 7, 2023

"Synthesis of Paracetamol by using p-amino phenol"

 

"Synthesis of Paracetamol by using p-amino phenol"

Theory:

Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is a widely used analgesic and antipyretic drug. Its chemical name is N-acetyl-para-aminophenol. Paracetamol can be synthesized through a multi-step reaction starting from phenol.

Chemicals Required:

  • 4-Aminophenol
  • Acetic anhydride
  • Concentrated sulfuric acid
  • Distilled water

Apparatus Required:

  1. Round-bottom flask
  2. Reflux condenser
  3. Separatory funnel
  4. Filtration setup
  5. Vacuum pump
  6. Glass stirring rod
  7. Beakers
  8. Heating mantle
  9. pH meter
  10. Thermometer

Chemical Equation:

Mechanism:

Procedure:

Acetylation:

a. In a round-bottom flask, combine 20 g of 4-aminophenol with 50 mL of acetic anhydride.

b. Add a few drops of concentrated sulfuric acid to the flask.

c. Reflux the mixture for 3-4 hours at a temperature of 120-130°C.

d. Stir the reaction mixture intermittently during refluxing.

Cooling and Filtration:

a. Allow the reaction mixture to cool to room temperature.

b. Pour the mixture into a beaker containing cold water.

c. Filter the precipitated paracetamol using a Buchner funnel and wash it with water.

Drying and Purification:

a. Dry the paracetamol precipitate by suction filtration using a vacuum pump.

b. Purify the dried paracetamol by recrystallization from a suitable solvent (e.g., ethanol).

Calculations

Calculate the molar mass of 4-aminophenol

Molar mass of 4-aminophenol (C6H7NO) = (12.01 g/mol × 6) + (1.01 g/mol × 7) + (14.01 g/mol) + (16.00 g/mol)

Molar mass of 4-aminophenol = 109.13 g/mol

Moles of 4-aminophenol = Mass of 4-aminophenol / Molar mass of 4-aminophenol

Moles of 4-aminophenol = 20 g / 109.13 g/mol ≈ 0.183 mol

Since the acetylation reaction involves a 1:1 stoichiometry between 4-aminophenol and paracetamol, the moles of paracetamol formed will also be 0.183 mol.

Yield Calculation:

Assuming an ideal situation with a 100% yield, the yield of paracetamol would be 0.183 mol.

To calculate the mass of paracetamol

Mass of paracetamol = Moles of paracetamol × Molar mass of paracetamol = 0.183 mol × (12.01 g/mol × 8 + 1.01 g/mol × 9 + 14.01 g/mol + 16.00 g/mol × 2) ≈ 19.36 g

Mass of paracetamol = 19.36 g

Precautions:

  • Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (lab coat, gloves, safety goggles) while handling chemicals.
  • Perform the synthesis in a well-ventilated fume hood to avoid inhalation of toxic fumes.
  • Use caution while handling concentrated sulfuric acid and acetic anhydride, as they are corrosive.
  • Follow good laboratory practices and adhere to local safety regulations.
  • Dispose of chemical waste properly according to safety guidelines.

Friday, June 30, 2023

"Extraction of Piperine from Black Pepper"

 

Extraction of Piperine from Black Pepper

Introduction:

This experiment aims to extract piperine, the active compound responsible for the pungent taste and health benefits in black pepper. Piperine is a bioactive alkaloid with various medicinal properties, making it a valuable compound to isolate and study. The extraction process involves the use of a suitable organic solvent to isolate piperine from the crushed black pepper.

Theory:

Piperine (C₁₇H₁₉NO) is a crystalline alkaloid found in black pepper. It is responsible for the pepper's characteristic pungency and acts as a bioenhancer, enhancing the absorption of various nutrients and drugs. In this experiment, the piperine will be extracted from black pepper using an organic solvent through a process called solvent extraction.

Chemicals:

  • Black Pepper (ground)
  • Ethanol (95% or higher purity)
  • Distilled Water

Glassware:

  • Conical Flask
  • Separatory Funnel
  • Glass Stir Rod
  • Buchner Funnel
  • Filter Paper

Procedure:

  1. Weigh 50g of ground black pepper and transfer it to a conical flask.
  2. Add 200 mL of ethanol to the flask and stir the mixture using a glass rod.
  3. Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to enhance extraction.
  4. Set up a Buchner funnel with filter paper and filter the mixture to separate the solid residue (undissolved particles) from the ethanol extract.
  5. Transfer the filtrate (ethanol extract) to a separatory funnel.
  6. Add 50 mL of distilled water to the separatory funnel and shake gently to allow for phase separation.
  7. Allow the two layers to settle, with the denser water layer at the bottom and the lighter ethanol layer at the top.
  8. Carefully drain the bottom water layer, leaving behind the ethanol extract (containing piperine) in the separatory funnel.
  9. Transfer the ethanol extract to a pre-weighed evaporating dish.
  10. Evaporate the ethanol using a water bath or a rotary evaporator to obtain the crude piperine.


Calculations:

Given data: Initial amount of black pepper = 50 grams 

Concentration of piperine in the extracted crude extract= 5%

Step 1:

Calculate the amount of piperine in the extracted crude extract.

Amount of piperine = Volume of crude extract X Concentration of piperine

Assuming the volume of crude extract is 100 mL;

Amount of piperine = 100 mL X 5% (0.05) 

Amount of piperine = 5 grams

Step 2:

Calculate the percentage yield.

Percentage yield = (Amount of Crude Piperine Obtained / Initial Mass of Black Pepper) X 100

Percentage yield = (5 g / 50 g) X 100

Percentage yield = 10%

Therefore, based on the given data, the percentage yield of piperine from the extraction of 50 grams of black pepper would be 10%.

Observations:

Piperine (C₁₇H₁₉NO)

Color of Piperine: Piperine is a yellowish-brown crystalline compound.

Molar Mass: 285.34 g/mol

Melting Point: The melting point of piperine is approximately 128-131°C.

Precautions:

  • Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhalation of ethanol vapors.
  • Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including lab coats and gloves.
  • Use a fume hood when handling volatile solvents.
  • Handle the glassware with care to avoid breakage and injury.
  • Avoid direct contact with eyes, skin, and mouth when handling black pepper or piperine.

Conclusion:

This experiment successfully demonstrates the extraction of piperine from black pepper using ethanol as the solvent. The obtained crude piperine can further be purified and analyzed for its potential medicinal properties.

Friday, June 23, 2023

"Extraction of Limonene from Orange Peel Using a Soxhlet Apparatus"

 

Extraction of Limonene from Orange Peel Using a Soxhlet Apparatus

Theory:

The extraction of limonene from orange peel is a common procedure used to isolate this valuable compound for various industrial and research applications. Limonene is a cyclic terpene hydrocarbon found abundantly in the essential oils of citrus fruits, particularly in orange peel. The Soxhlet extraction method is employed to separate limonene from the peel using a non-polar solvent, typically hexane or petroleum ether. The Soxhlet apparatus allows for efficient extraction by repeatedly boiling the solvent, which vaporizes and then condenses, cycling through the solid material multiple times. This continuous process maximizes the extraction efficiency, ensuring a higher yield of limonene.

Chemicals Required:

  • Orange peels (dried and finely ground) - 50 g
  • Hexane or petroleum ether (solvent) - 500 mL

Apparatus Required:

  • Soxhlet apparatus (consisting of a round-bottom flask, Soxhlet extractor, condenser, and a collection flask)
  • Heating mantle 
  • Separatory funnel
  • Glass wool 
  • Weighing balance
  • Glassware
  • Vacuum filtration setup

Procedure:

  1. Set up the Soxhlet apparatus by attaching the condenser, Soxhlet extractor, and round-bottom flask. Place a glass wool plug or filter paper in the extractor to prevent the solid material from entering the condenser.
  2. Weigh approximately 50 g of dried and finely ground orange peels.
  3. Add the orange peels into the Soxhlet extractor.
  4. Fill the round-bottom flask with 500 mL of hexane or petroleum ether.
  5. Assemble the Soxhlet apparatus and connect the condenser to a water source for cooling.
  6. Set up a heating mantle or hot plate/stirrer beneath the round-bottom flask and switch it on.
  7. Begin heating the flask gradually, allowing the solvent to boil and vaporize. As the solvent vapor rises, it condenses in the condenser and drips back into the Soxhlet extractor, cycling through the orange peels.
  8. Continue the extraction process for 6-8 hours to ensure a thorough extraction of limonene.
  9. After the extraction, disconnect the Soxhlet apparatus and remove the round-bottom flask containing the extracted solution.
  10. Transfer the extracted solution into a separatory funnel and allow the two phases to separate.
  11. Drain the lower aqueous layer and collect the upper organic layer (containing limonene) in a clean beaker.
  12. Perform a vacuum filtration to remove the solvent and concentrate the limonene.
  13. Calculate the yield of limonene by measuring the weight or volume of the collected limonene.
  14. Store the extracted limonene in a properly labeled and tightly sealed container for future use.

Observation:

Boiling Point: 176-177°C (349-351°F) at atmospheric pressure.

Melting Point: -74°C (-101°F).

Color: Limonene is a colorless liquid.

Molar Mass: 136.24 g/mol.

Molecular Structure: Limonene has a molecular formula of C10H16, indicating it consists of 10 carbon atoms and 16 hydrogen atoms. It is a cyclic terpene and belongs to the class of monocyclic monoterpenes.



Calculations:

Let's assume the weight of the extracted limonene is 2.5 grams, and the weight of the orange peels used is 50 grams. We can now calculate the yield of limonene.

Yield of Limonene (%) = (Weight of extracted limonene / Weight of orange peels) x 100

Yield of Limonene (%) = (2.5 g / 50 g) x 100

Yield of Limonene (%) = 0.05 x 100

Yield of Limonene (%) = 5%

Therefore, the yield of limonene from the extraction process is 5%.

Precautions:

  • Work in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood due to the use of organic solvents.
  • Handle the Soxhlet apparatus and hot glassware with caution to avoid burns.
  • Ensure the apparatus is properly assembled and securely clamped to prevent accidents.
  • Use heat-resistant gloves and eye protection during the experiment.
  • Avoid inhaling vapors of the solvent. Keep away from open flames and sources of ignition.
  • Dispose of waste materials and organic solvents properly according to local regulations.

Introduction to Alkanes and their general properties

Hydrocarbons The branch of chemistry which deals with the carbon and hydrogen derivatives is called hydrocarbons. They can be classified...