A heterogeneous mixture consists of the following components in the quantities listed:
• 2.5 g sodium chloride (water-soluble ionic solid)
• 1.8 g benzoic acid (sparingly soluble in cold water; readily soluble in hot water and in diethyl ether)
• 3.2 g sand (insoluble in water and common organic solvents)
• 60 mL water
• 40 mL diethyl ether (density = 0.71 g mL−1, immiscible with water)
The goal is to recover each component in pure, dry form with minimal loss.
(1) Design a sequential laboratory procedure that achieves the stated goal using standard undergraduate-level equipment (beakers, separatory funnel, hot plate, ice bath, Buchner funnel, etc.). Present the steps in a logical order.
(2) For each separation step, specify the physical or chemical property difference that enables that step to succeed, and explain how the step isolates at least one component from the rest of the mixture.
(3) Identify two potential sources of material loss or contamination in your scheme and propose a specific technique or modification that would reduce each loss.
(4) Estimate, showing clear reasoning, which single step in your procedure is likely to have the lowest percent recovery for its target component, and explain why.