Separation of Camphor and Benzene

The method that can be applied to separate a mixture of camphor and benzene is chemical methods.

Explanation:

Chemical methods involve the use of chemical reactions to separate the components of a mixture. In this case, we can use a chemical reaction to selectively react with one of the components, thereby converting it into a different compound that can be separated from the mixture.

Here is a step-by-step explanation of how chemical methods can be applied to separate camphor and benzene:

1. Chemical Reaction: One possible method is to react camphor with a suitable reagent that can convert it into a different compound. For example, we can react camphor with bromine water (Br2) to form a solid compound called camphor bromide.

Camphor + Br2 -> Camphor bromide

2. Formation of Precipitate: Camphor bromide is a solid compound that is insoluble in the mixture. Therefore, it will precipitate out of the mixture as a solid.

3. Separation: The precipitated camphor bromide can be separated from the mixture by filtration. Filtration is a method that uses a porous barrier (filter paper) to separate the solid from the liquid.

4. Recovery: After filtration, the camphor bromide can be recovered by washing it with a suitable solvent, such as water, to remove any impurities.

5. Conversion back to Camphor: Finally, the camphor bromide can be converted back to camphor by reacting it with a reducing agent, such as zinc dust or sodium sulfite.

Camphor bromide + Reducing agent -> Camphor + By-products

By following these steps, we can successfully separate camphor from the mixture.

Advantages of Chemical Methods:

- Chemical methods are often highly selective and can target specific components in a mixture.
- They can be used to separate components that have similar physical properties.
- Chemical reactions can be controlled to ensure the desired separation is achieved.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, chemical methods can be applied to separate a mixture of camphor and benzene. By reacting camphor with a suitable reagent, we can convert it into a different compound that can be separated from the mixture. This method offers a selective and effective way to separate the components.