Asked by Zach

Why is the melting point of a known compound (ex. acetanilide) determined before the melting point of the unknown compound?
I think it is to determine if the unknown is a pure substance but I am not sure..I just need to be pointed in the right direction.
Answered by DrBob222
You can tell if the unknown is a pure substance by the melting point range (or lack of a range). I suspect it is to determine if the thermometer is calibrated properly.