Synthesis of a Haloalkane (OCR A Level Chemistry)

Synthesis of a haloalkane from an alcohol

• Measure 8 cm³ of 2-methylpropan-2-ol in a measuring cylinder
• Pour the 2-methylpropan-2-ol into a separating funnel
• Using a fume hood, add 20 cm³ of concentrated hydrochloric acid to the separating funnel in small portions of 2 - 3 cm³ making sure to release the pressure by opening the stopper after each addition 
• Leave the separating funnel to stand in the fume hood for 20 minutes and gently shake the separating funnel at 2 minute intervals 
• Allow the layers to separate and dispose of the lower aqueous layer by opening the tap
• Add sodium hydrogen carbonate solution in small portions to the funnel and gently shake the funnel, again, release the pressure at regular intervals
  • This removes acidic impurities
• Once these layers have separated, open the tap once more and dispose of the aqueous layer
• Pour the organic layer into a clean dry conical flask and add two spatulas of anhydrous magnesium sulfate 
  • This will remove water 
• Once clear, decant the liquid into distillation apparatus 
• Distill the liquid and collect the distillate in the range of 47 - 53 ^oC

A separating funnel allows the product to be cleaned and isolated