Question

2 multiple choice 1 point which of the following mixtures would be best suited for separation using simple distillation? a mixture of water and ethanol (boiling points: 100°c and 78°c). a mixture of acetone and water (boiling points: 56°c and 100°c) a mixture of acetone and methanol (boiling points: 56°c and 64.7°c) a mixture of hexane and octane (boiling points: 69°c and 126°c). previous next

Explanation:

Step1: Recall distillation principle

Simple distillation is best for mixtures with large boiling - point differences (usually >30°C).

Step2: Analyze each option

• Option A: Water and ethanol have a boiling - point difference of \(100 - 78=22^{\circ}C\).
• Option B: Acetone and water have a boiling - point difference of \(100 - 56 = 44^{\circ}C\).
• Option C: Acetone and methanol have a boiling - point difference of \(64.7-56 = 8.7^{\circ}C\).
• Option D: Hexane and octane have a boiling - point difference of \(126 - 69=57^{\circ}C\). Since the boiling - point difference of hexane and octane is the largest among the given options, it is best suited for simple distillation.

Answer:

D. A mixture of hexane and octane (boiling points: 69°C and 126°C).