Question

Why might it be very difficult to visualize the separation of cis- and trans-2-butene by tlc?

Answer 1

The separation of cis- and trans-2-butene by TLC is difficult due to the slight difference in polarity and the potential for interconversion, which can make the polarity difference insignificant for separation purposes.

Step-by-step explanation:

To address the question of why it might be very difficult to visualize the separation of cis- and trans-2-butene by TLC (Thin Layer Chromatography), we must consider their physical and chemical properties. TLC relies on the different polarities of compounds to carry out separation. Since cis-2-butene is a polar molecule and trans-2-butene is nonpolar, we might expect TLC to be able to separate them effectively. However, the difference in polarity might not be sufficient to achieve a clear separation, due to their similar molecular structures and the fact that both compounds can interconvert when sufficient energy, such as heat or light, is applied, potentially complicating the TLC process.

The difficulty in separating these isomers arises from the fact that cis- and trans-isomers have similar boiling points and other physical properties despite their difference in polarity, which may not be distinct enough to be resolved by TLC. Generally, the stationary phase in TLC might not interact significantly differently with each isomer to produce a clear distinction between their spots on the TLC plate.

Answer 2

An isomers cis 2 butene have a very closely similar physical properties and chemical properties to trans 2 butene. The isomers also behave similarly for many analytical test. The separation makes difficult on TLC for these isomers. Depending on the outside forces like temperature and radiations imparting on it the isomers changes into each-other.