Question

While Preparing Analgesic TLC Standard, why does the chemist transfer methanol from the 4 L bottle into the 50 mL beaker and then from the 50 mL beaker into the graduated cylinder rather than transferring methanol directly from the 4 L bottle into the graduated cylinder? Select all that apply.

a. It is safer to pour into an intermediate container that has a larger mouth so that methanol is less likely to spill when filling the 10 mL graduated cylinder.
b. The chemist should have directly transferred from the 4 L container, they just made a technique error.
c. A 50 mL beaker has a pour spout that will allow for neater transfer to the graduated cylinder
d. It is better to use as much glassware as possible to prevent cross-contamination of chemicals.

Answer 1

The chemist transfers methanol from the 4 L bottle into the 50 mL beaker and then into the graduated cylinder to minimize the risk of spillage, increase accuracy, and prevent cross-contamination.

Step-by-step explanation:

The chemist transfers methanol from the 4 L bottle into the 50 mL beaker and then from the 50 mL beaker into the graduated cylinder for a few reasons:

1. The 4 L bottle has a large opening, which increases the risk of spillage when filling the small graduated cylinder. Pouring into the intermediate 50 mL beaker with a pour spout allows for a neater transfer to the graduated cylinder, reducing the chances of spillage. (a)
2. Using an intermediate container like the 50 mL beaker with a pour spout provides better control and accuracy when transferring a smaller volume, such as when using the graduated cylinder. This helps ensure the correct amount of methanol is added. (c)
3. Transferring directly from the 4 L bottle to the graduated cylinder can introduce the risk of cross-contamination of chemicals. Using additional glassware, like the 50 mL beaker, helps minimize the likelihood of cross-contamination. (d)