Question

ou want to convert 5 mL of 3-methyl-2-butanol to 3-methyl-2-butene by an acid catalyzed dehydration. In order to finalize the experimental details, you look up the physical constants in the CRC Handbook and find the following data regarding boiling points and densities. 3-methylbutan-2-ol : b.p. 114°C, density 0.818 g/mL 2-methylbut-2-ene: b.p. 39°C, density 0.662 g/mL Answer the following questions pertaining to the planned experiment. What is your theoretical yield? What are other compounds that could possibly form that would decrease your yield? in mols in grams in mL What are other compounds that could possibly form that would decrease your yield? How could you separate the product from the acid and any unreacted starting materials?

Answer 1

Answers.

Theoritical yield as 100% is 3.181 g of 3-methyl-2-butene.

the elimination of water molecule from alcohol get alkene and water, when 3-methyl 2-butanol dehydration get 2-3 carbons 2-methyl-2-butene this is major product other compound minor product form from 1-2 carbons is 3-methyl-1-butene.

this we can separate extraction method using solvent like toluene, ethylacetate, dichloromethane from acid and unreacted starting materials. after extraction one water washing required. in this both (acid and alcohol soluble )will go with water. product insoluble in water.