Question

During the Recrystallization of Benzoic Acid, If crystal growth does not start on its own after the solution in the flask returns to room temperature, identify the best ways to promote crystal growth.

Select one or more:
a. Add a seed crystal.
b. Place the flask on a hot plate to evaporate some solvent.
c. Add ice cubes to the solution.
d. Scratch the bottom of the flask gently with a stirring rod.

Answer 1

One of the best ways to promote crystal growth during the recrystallization of benzoic acid is to add a seed crystal. This provides a starting point for other molecules to align and grow, speeding up the crystallization process.

Step-by-step explanation:

To promote crystal growth during the recrystallization of benzoic acid, one of the best ways is to add a seed crystal. A seed crystal is a solid sample of a substance that can be added to a supercooled liquid or a supersaturated solution to help induce crystallization. The seed crystal provides a starting point for other molecules to align and grow, speeding up the crystallization process. Other options, such as placing the flask on a hot plate to evaporate some solvent or scratching the bottom of the flask gently with a stirring rod, may disrupt the process or introduce impurities.