What method can be used to separate naphthalene - sodium chloride mixture

1 answer

One method that can be used to separate a naphthalene-sodium chloride mixture is by sublimation. Since naphthalene sublimes (changes directly from a solid to a gas) at a relatively low temperature, while sodium chloride does not, this method can be effective in separating the two substances.

The steps involved in the sublimation process are as follows:

1. Set up a sublimation apparatus consisting of a heat source (such as a Bunsen burner), a heat-resistant container, and a condenser or cooling apparatus.

2. Heat the mixture gently, allowing the naphthalene to sublimate. The naphthalene will turn into a gas and rise, leaving behind the solid sodium chloride.

3. Use the condenser or cooling apparatus to cool the gas, causing it to condense back into a solid form.

4. Collect the condensed naphthalene in a separate container.

5. The sodium chloride that remains in the original container can be easily separated by pouring off the excess liquid or by dissolving in water and evaporating the water to obtain the sodium chloride crystals.

Note: This method is applicable only if the mixture contains a significant amount of naphthalene in comparison to sodium chloride. If the mixture has a higher concentration of sodium chloride, other separation techniques like filtration or evaporation may be more appropriate.