Final answer:
To lower the boiling point of DMSO, one could mix it with another solvent with a lower boiling point to create an azeotrope. Suitable solvents for this purpose might include ethyl methyl sulfide, 2-methylbutane, or carbon tetrafluoride. However, safety and chemical compatibility must be considered when forming such mixtures.
Step-by-step explanation:
To mix a solvent with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) to lower its boiling point, you could choose a solvent with a lower boiling point than DMSO. This concept relies on the creation of an azeotrope, a mixture of two or more liquids with a constant boiling point and composition during distillation.
For example, ethyl methyl sulfide has a boiling point of 67°C, 2-methylbutane boils at 27.8°C, and carbon tetrafluoride has a boiling point of -128°C. By forming a suitable mixture with one of these solvents, the boiling point of the resultant liquid could be lower than that of pure DMSO.
However, it is also essential to consider the chemical compatibility and the safety aspects of the mixture. In some cases, mixing another solvent with DMSO can lead to unexpected reactions or hazardous conditions. Furthermore, if the goal is to utilize the lowered boiling point for a chemical process, it must be ensured that the lowered boiling point does not affect the desired reaction outcomes negatively.