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Chapter 18: Problem 429

Describe a simple chemical test that would serve to distinguish between trioxane and 1,4 -dioxane.

Short Answer

Expert verified
To distinguish between trioxane and 1,4-dioxane, use the 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (2,4-DNPH) test, as it can detect the presence of carbonyl groups. Trioxane, containing carbonyl groups, will form an orange or yellow precipitate when reacted with 2,4-DNPH, while 1,4-dioxane, without carbonyl groups, will not show any reaction.

Step by step solution

01

Identify the key differences between trioxane and 1,4-dioxane

Trioxane has three -CH2O- units, which contain a carbonyl group (C=O). In contrast, 1,4-dioxane has ether linkages (-O-) and lacks any carbonyl groups. This means that trioxane can potentially undergo reactions that involve the carbonyl group, while 1,4-dioxane cannot.
02

Choose a suitable chemical test

A common chemical test to exploit the presence of carbonyl groups is the 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (2,4-DNPH) test, also known as Brady's test. This test results in the formation of a yellow or orange precipitate (2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazone) when carbonyl compounds are present.
03

Carry out the 2,4-DNPH test

To perform the test, we will need a solution of 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine in a solvent (usually a mixture of methanol and sulfuric acid). 1. Dissolve a small amount of trioxane and 1,4-dioxane separately in test tubes containing a suitable solvent (e.g. dichloromethane or ethyl acetate). 2. Add a few drops of 2,4-DNPH solution to each test tube. 3. Shake the test tubes gently and observe any changes in color or the formation of any precipitates.
04

Analyze the results

If there is a carbonyl group present, such as in trioxane, the 2,4-DNPH test will result in the formation of an orange or yellow precipitate (2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazone). In contrast, 1,4-dioxane, which lacks carbonyl groups, will not react with 2,4-DNPH, and no precipitate will be observed.
05

Conclusion

To distinguish between trioxane and 1,4-dioxane, use the 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (2,4-DNPH) test, as it can detect the presence of carbonyl groups. Trioxane, containing carbonyl groups, will form an orange or yellow precipitate when reacted with 2,4-DNPH, while 1,4-dioxane, without carbonyl groups, will not show any reaction.

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