Final answer:
You need a clamp in a vacuum filtration apparatus to secure the filter funnel, prevent top-heaviness, and ensure stability against the weight of thick-walled vacuum tubing. The notion that the side-arm flask cannot work without a clamp is not accurate; the clamp primarily ensures stability, rather than being essential for function.
Step-by-step explanation:
You need to support a vacuum filtration apparatus with a clamp to maintain its stability and functionality during the filtration process. The clamp performs several essential functions:
- The filter funnel is held securely in place by the clamp to prevent it from tipping or falling due to the unbalanced weight distribution, especially when it becomes top-heavy with the collected solids.
- The idea that the side-arm flask does not work without a clamp is incorrect; it can work but using a clamp ensures that it does not move and remains connected to the vacuum source effectively.
- The side-arm flask can sit directly on the benchtop; however, using a clamp helps to avoid any movement that might dislodge the vacuum tubing and interrupt the filtration.
- Thick-walled vacuum tubing can contribute to instability by making the flask tippy, which is mitigated by securing the entire apparatus with a clamp.
The correct reasons for using a clamp in a vacuum filtration setup include supporting the filter funnel, preventing the apparatus from becoming top-heavy, and counteracting any instability caused by the vacuum tubing. The statement regarding the necessity of a clamp for the functionality of the side-arm flask is not applicable.