Chemistry recrystallization lab

[jacksie]

After performing crystallization and melting point determination I determined that my unknown solid was phthalic acid, however I am left with the question:
At the end of the filtration of the purified solid, it was observed that a small quantity of fine colourless particles was contained in the filtrate that had been collected in a clean filtration flask. (vacuum filtration to separate crystals from solvent).
i) What were these particles?
ii) Explain why these particles formed in the filtrate.
iii) Explain what effect, if any, the formation of these particles might have on the experimental results.


I am thinking that these particles were either crystals that were so small that they passed through the filter, and this would then affect the experimental results as the yeld would be less, or that these are impurities, but if they are I am not sure why they would form in the filtrate.

 

[Borek]

Filtrate is a saturated solution. Under vacuum it was most likely partially evaporated, and cooled in the process.

--
methods

 

[Blueshift5]

i) Without further information or analysis, it is difficult to determine exactly what these particles may be. However, they could potentially be impurities or byproducts of the crystallization process.

ii) The formation of these particles could be due to a number of factors. It is possible that they were present in the original sample and were not completely removed during the filtration process. Another possibility is that they formed as a result of incomplete crystallization, meaning that not all of the solid material was able to crystallize and some remained in the liquid phase.

iii) The presence of these particles could potentially affect the experimental results in a few ways. If they are impurities, they could alter the melting point or other physical properties of the solid, making it more difficult to accurately determine its identity. Additionally, if the particles are actually small crystals, their presence in the filtrate could lead to a lower yield of the desired solid, thus affecting the overall results of the experiment. It is important to carefully analyze and address the presence of these particles in order to obtain accurate and reliable results from the experiment. Further purification or analysis techniques may be necessary to fully understand their impact on the experimental results.