How to distinguish isopropyl alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol (Ethanol, the chemical formula is C≡H≡OH) is a common organic compound, the chemical name is dimethyl ethanol. It has a wide range of applications in industry, laboratories and daily life. Sometimes isopropanol may be confused with other similar substances, such as ethanol (ethanol), isobutanol (iso-butanol), etc. Therefore, the accurate method of distinguishing isopropanol is particularly important. This article will introduce you in detail how to identify several methods of isopropyl alcohol, and remind you of the precautions in the application or storage.

1. Isopropanol Basic properties

Before distinguishing between isopropanol, it is necessary to understand its basic properties. Isopropanol is a colorless liquid with a peculiar odor and a density of about 0 0.785g/cm³ for safety management. It is easily soluble in water, but its solubility is about 10%. In chemical reactions, isopropyl alcohol is a common reducing agent, but under certain conditions it may trigger dangerous reactions.

2. Identification of Isopropanol

1. Physical identification method

Shaking method: After isopropyl alcohol and water are mixed, because the density of isopropyl alcohol is less than water, it will float on the upper layer of water. When shaking the container with water and isopropyl alcohol, you can see the obvious stratification.

Combustion method: Pour a small amount of isopropanol into a combustion dish and ignite. Isopropyl alcohol emits a pungent smell when it burns, and the flame is light blue, not the bright flame when ethanol burns.

Smell method: smell the liquid, isopropyl alcohol has a special taste, similar to the smell of fruit wine, different from ethanol.

Density measurement method: Using a measuring cylinder and water, based on the density of isopropyl alcohol (approximately 0.785g/cm³), its mass or volume can be calculated.

2. Chemical identification method

Reaction with water: Isopropanol does not precipitate or react with water at room temperature, but they are miscible. If you want to distinguish between other insoluble liquids, you can mix with water and observe whether there is stratification.

Reaction with bromine water: bromine water will fade rapidly when encountering a large amount of isopropanol, because isopropanol is reductive, while ethanol may have a relatively slow fading reaction with bromine water.

3. Storage and application of precautions

Storage: Isopropyl alcohol should be stored in a cool, dry and ventilated place. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent decomposition or volatilization. Keep away from fire and flammable materials.

Applications: In the laboratory, isopropanol is commonly used for cleaning, disinfecting and as a solvent. In industrial applications, isopropanol is commonly used to produce derivatives of acetic acid or ethanol. However, during use, attention should be paid to its flammability and potential toxicity, especially when operating in confined spaces, and protective equipment must be worn.

3. how to distinguish isopropyl alcohol FAQ

Question 1: How do you distinguish between isopropanol and ethanol?

Answer: Ethanol and isopropanol are both common organic solvents, but they have significant differences in physical and chemical properties. Ethanol is miscible with water and has a density of about 0.789g/cm³, while isopropanol is miscible with water and has a density of about 0.785g/cm³. Ethanol burns with a bright flame and a burnt smell, while isopropanol burns with a smaller flame and a fruit wine aroma.

Question 2: Is isopropyl alcohol flammable?

Answer: Yes, isopropyl alcohol is flammable. Under high temperature or light conditions, isopropyl alcohol may spontaneously ignite or react with oxygen in the air. Therefore, during storage and operation, attention must be paid to ventilation and keeping away from fire sources.

Question 3: How do you distinguish between isopropanol and isobutanol?

Answer: Isobutanol has a density of about 0.573g/cm³, which is different from isopropanol, so they can be distinguished by density measurement. The odor and burning characteristics of isobutanol are also different from isopropanol.

With the above methods and precautions, you can easily distinguish isopropyl alcohol from other similar substances. Proper storage and application of isopropyl alcohol can ensure its safe use in various fields. I hope the detailed analysis of this article is helpful to you!