The most suitable method of separation of 1 : 1mixture of ortho and para-nitrophenols is :a)Chromatographyb)Crystallisationc)Steam distillationd)SublimationCorrect answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Question

Answer

Steam distillation is a separation technique that harnesses the low boiling point property of immiscible mixtures it is predominately used to separate temperature-sensitive organic molecules from a non-volatile contaminant the organic molecule must be immiscible in water

Answer

Steam distillation ,because orthonitrophenol is steam volatile while paranitrophenol is not .

Answer

Separation of Ortho and Para-Nitrophenols

Introduction:
Ortho-nitrophenol and para-nitrophenol are isomers that differ in the position of the nitro group (-NO2) on the phenol ring. Separating these two isomers can be challenging due to their similar physical and chemical properties. However, one effective method for their separation is steam distillation.

Steam Distillation:
Steam distillation is a technique used to separate volatile compounds from non-volatile or less volatile substances. It is based on the principle that when a mixture of immiscible liquids is heated, the volatile component vaporizes and can be collected separately.

Process:
The mixture of ortho and para-nitrophenols is heated under reflux in the presence of water. The steam generated carries the volatile ortho-nitrophenol along with it, while the para-nitrophenol remains in the flask. The steam containing the ortho-nitrophenol is then condensed, and the two components are separated.

Reason for Suitability:
Steam distillation is the most suitable method for the separation of the 1:1 mixture of ortho and para-nitrophenols due to the following reasons:

1. Difference in Volatility: Ortho-nitrophenol is more volatile than para-nitrophenol due to the location of the nitro group. This difference in volatility allows for their separation using steam distillation.

2. Boiling Points: Ortho-nitrophenol has a lower boiling point (178-179°C) compared to para-nitrophenol (279-281°C). Steam distillation enables the separation of ortho-nitrophenol at a lower temperature, preventing the decomposition of the compounds.

3. Water Solubility: Ortho-nitrophenol is more soluble in water compared to para-nitrophenol. Steam distillation involves heating the mixture in the presence of water, allowing the ortho-nitrophenol to dissolve and be carried away by the steam.

4. Non-Destructive: Steam distillation is a non-destructive separation method as it does not involve harsh chemicals or high temperatures that can degrade the compounds. This ensures the preservation of the ortho and para-nitrophenols in their original forms.

5. Yield and Purity: Steam distillation can provide a high yield of ortho-nitrophenol while keeping the para-nitrophenol separate and pure.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, steam distillation is the most suitable method for the separation of a 1:1 mixture of ortho and para-nitrophenols due to the difference in their volatility, boiling points, and water solubility. This technique allows for the selective separation of ortho-nitrophenol while keeping the para-nitrophenol separate and pure.

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