Asprin Experiment

Question

How does the temperature affect the asprin experiment.

And what are the errors in the 3 processes - reflux, recrystallisation and vaccum filtration that would give an error in the percentage yield,

And why is this?

Answer 1

Effect of Temperature on the Aspirin Experiment

Temperature influences the reaction rate, solubility, and purity of aspirin. During reflux, higher temperatures speed up esterification but can also degrade aspirin if excessive. In recrystallization, the right temperature ensures aspirin crystallizes properly while impurities stay in solution.

Errors Affecting Percentage Yield

1. Reflux Errors:
2. Incomplete reaction due to insufficient heating or time lowers yield.
3. Overheating can break down aspirin, reducing final product.
4. Loss of acetic anhydride through evaporation decreases reaction efficiency.
5. Recrystallization Errors:
6. Too much solvent prevents full aspirin crystallization.
7. Poor cooling leads to incomplete crystal formation.
8. Product loss during filtration lowers recovery.
9. Vacuum Filtration Errors:
10. Clogged filters slow separation, causing loss of product.
11. Incomplete drying falsely inflates mass.
12. Fine aspirin particles may pass through the filter, reducing yield.

Why These Errors Occur

These errors stem from reaction kinetics, solvent behavior, and human handling, leading to product loss or contamination, ultimately affecting the final percentage yield.