Question

What is the method to separate two compounds with different solubilities in a solvent?

• A. Sublimation
• B. Crystallization
• C. Chromatography
• D. Distillation

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Crystallization

Two compounds which have different solubilities in a solvent S can be separated from each other by Fractional Crystallisation. The process involves a series of repeated-crystallisations. The mixture of the two compounds in the solvent S is heated so as to make it saturated. When the hot solution is allowed to cool, the less soluble substance crsytallises out first while the more soluble substance remains in the solution. The crystals of first compound are separated from the mother liquor and the mother liquor is again concentrated and allowed to cool when the crystals of the 2nd compound are obtained.