Distillation of Rubbing Alcohol

I. Objectives
1. To explain boiling point and volatility.
2. To predict trend in boiling points based on intermolecular force of attraction.
3. To rationalize the function of the parts of a simple distillation setup.
4. To assess the recovery of a component in a mixture and the purity of the distillate.

II. Diagrams/Figures for special set-ups:

Figure 1. Simple distillation set-up.

III. Outline/Schematic diagram of procedure:

 A. Preparation of distillation

Prepare the simple distillation set-up as shown in Figure 1.

Turn on water supply. Check that all glass joints fit well.

Fill the round distilling flask with rubbing alcohol (20 mL). Add 2-3
Place distilling flask intoofa boiling
pieces hot water bath
chips or until
sticksboiling, and obtain
boiling point of alcohol.

Secure the round bottom flask using iron clamps.

Observe as vapors and condensate pass through the side arm of
the three-way adapter, the condenser, and into the receiving flask.
Use rubber tubing for water inlet-outlet, ensuring that water flows
into the bottom of condenser’s cooling jacket and out from top.
Upon accumulation of distillate, collect first 1 mL of the distillate,
and then discard.
Secure the thermometer using rubber with a hole ensuring its
placed below the side arm of the three-way adapter.
Collect remaining distillate that distills at the boiling point of alcohol.

Measure the volume of the distillate and taking into account

percentage of alcohol, and then calculate for percent recovery.

Allow the entire setup to cool before dismantling it.

B. Distillation proper of rubbing alcohol

IV. Special Notes (proper waste disposal, safety precautions):

A. Waste disposal
1. Dispose of the rubbing alcohol distillate into the non-halogenated organic waste
container

B. Safety Precautions
1. Use of Personal Protection Equipment (safety glasses, gloves, protective clothing,
face shield, masks, laboratory gowns and closed shoes)