How to distinguish between hexanone and ether

In the chemical industry, sometimes encounter some seemingly similar but in fact the nature of different substances, they may be different in appearance, nature, use and so on. Among them, hexanone and ethyl ether are two common organic solvents. Although they are both colorless liquids, they are significantly different in many properties. Distinguishing them is critical in practice, especially in experimental and industrial applications. The following will analyze in detail how to distinguish between hexanone and ether from a number of aspects.

1. Appearance and color

In appearance, hexanone and ether are colorless and transparent liquids, but their color differences in actual operation can be used as a basis for preliminary judgment.

• Hexanone: At room temperature, it is a clear and transparent liquid, colorless and tasteless.
• Ether: Because of its molecular structure, ether at room temperature slightly with a faint yellow-green, especially in the light of the more obvious.

Therefore, observing the appearance of these two liquids can preliminarily judge their difference. Ether is easily identified quickly because of its special green character, while hexanone needs to be distinguished by other properties.

2. Taste and smell

Odor is one of the important bases for distinguishing hexanone from ether.

• Hexanone: colorless liquid smell similar to fruit, with a certain fruit flavor.
• Ether: Has a pungent, strong odor, similar to a burning odor, sometimes referred to as a "burning smell".

Therefore, the two liquids can be quickly distinguished by the sense of smell. The smell of ether is more pungent and easier to detect, while hexanone has a soft fruit-like aroma.

3. Solubility and flammability

In terms of solubility and flammability, hexanone and ethyl ether also have obvious differences.

• Hexanone: in water has good solubility, with water to form a miscible solution.
• Ether: Slightly soluble in water and usually requires the addition of a catalyst to improve solubility.

In terms of flammability:

• Hexanone: flammable, its burning point is low, suitable for preparation and experimental need to heat the occasion.
• Ether: although also flammable, but its flammability is low, burning point is high, suitable for the need to control the flame experiment.

4. Boiling Point and Density

In terms of physical properties, hexanone and ether also have significant differences.

• Hexanone: The boiling point is high, about 151°C, and the density is moderate.
• Ether: boiling point is low, about 35 ° C, density is small.

Therefore, by measuring the boiling point and density of these two liquids, you can also help distinguish them.

Summary

Through the above several aspects, hexanone and ether can be systematically separated. First observe the color, ether with green; secondly smell, ether has a strong pungent odor; again consider solubility and flammability, hexanone is well dissolved in water and flammable. Through these features, the difference between the two liquids can be quickly and accurately judged, so that they can be distinguished and used in actual operation.