How to distinguish between benzene and ethanol

Benzene and ethanol are two common organic compounds with significant differences in chemical and physical properties. In industrial production and daily life, it is very important to distinguish these two substances for experimental operation, environmental protection and production safety. How to distinguish between benzene and ethanol will be analyzed in detail from multiple perspectives below.

1. basic nature distinction

1. Solubility The solubility of benzene and ethanol is an important basis for distinguishing them. Benzene is an organic solvent insoluble in water, while ethanol is readily soluble in water. Specifically, benzene exhibits "insoluble" characteristics in water, while its solubility in ethanol is low. This difference in physical properties can help us quickly determine the type of substance.

2. Density Benzene has a density of about 0.876g/cm³, while ethanol has a density of 0.789g/cm³. The density of the two is similar, but the method of measuring the density can still effectively distinguish between the two.

3. Boiling Point Benzene has a boiling point of 80.1°C and ethanol has a boiling point of 78.1°C. Although the boiling points of the two are close, they can be accurately distinguished by heating and condensation.

2. physical property difference

1. Solubility test The two substances were added to water or ethanol, respectively, and their dissolution was observed. Benzene is almost insoluble in water and partially soluble in ethanol; ethanol is well soluble in both water and ethanol.

2. stratification phenomenon When the two are mixed with water, the observed phenomenon is different. Benzene and water will form two layers after mixing, and the benzene layer is located on the top; while ethanol and water will be completely dissolved after mixing, without stratification.

3. chemical property difference

1. Reactivity Benzene is stable and inactive at room temperature, and is not easy to react with strong acids, strong bases or oxidants. Ethanol has a certain chemical activity, especially in acidic conditions, easy to be oxidized.

2. chemical reaction formula Benzene usually does not participate in chemical reactions, while ethanol can react with acidic potassium permanganate under certain conditions (such as the presence of a catalyst) to produce carbon dioxide and water.

4. the actual operation of the distinction method

1. Density measurement By measuring the density of the two substances, combined with the known data to judge. For example, if the measurement is close to 0.876g/cm³, it may be benzene; if it is close to 0.789g/cm³, it may be ethanol.

2. Dissolution experiment The two substances are separately added to the same solvent (e. g., water or ethanol) and their dissolution is observed. Benzene is insoluble in water and partially soluble in ethanol; ethanol is soluble in both solvents.

3. heating method By heating and condensing, the boiling points of the two substances were observed. Benzene boils at 80.1°C and ethanol boils at 78.1°C.

5. Considerations

In the process of distinguishing between benzene and ethanol, the following points need to be paid attention:

1. Environmental awareness Ethanol is flammable and should be used in strict compliance with safety procedures to avoid accidental ignition and fire.

2. Operation safety Benzene is flammable and easy to oxidize. It is also necessary to pay attention to ventilation, keep away from fire sources, and wear necessary protective equipment.

Through the above method, combined with experimental observation and chemical knowledge, benzene and ethanol can be effectively distinguished. This ability to distinguish has important application value in chemical production, environmental protection and daily life.