Question

Name two methods by which hexylamine could be separated from benzoic acid.

Answer 1

Two methods:

1. Use of acid-base extraction will seperate both of compounds.

hexylamine is basic and benzoic acid is weakly acidic. Thus, by adding aqueous NaOH to the mixture, the benzoic acid will separate out into the aqueous phase, as it becomes the benzoate which dissolves well in water. hexylamine remains in the organic phase. Then both can be separates by separating funnel. Further, acidify the aqueous layer to get benzoic acid.

2. Through distillation as hexylamine is liquid with boiling point 131.5 ^oC whereas benzoic acid is solid.