Chemical Forums
Chemistry Forums for Students => Organic Chemistry Forum => Topic started by: vverityv on March 02, 2013, 12:01:40 AM
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I'm having trouble with WHY hexane makes a good recrystallizing solvent for trans-stilbene.
I've already completed the experiment, so I know that it does work. Trans-stilbene will recrystallize in hexane. However, I was told by my instructor to use this solvent. It probably would've been my last choice because I know that in choosing a solvent you should pick one that differs slightly in polarity.
Going with the saying 'like dissolves like,' isn't trans-stilbene nonpolar? Hexane is nonpolar, so why would trans-stilbene be only slightly soluble in hexane at room temperature and not fully soluble? I have a feeling that it either has something to do with the molecular weight or the aromatic rings, but I'm not sure. Any help would be greatly appreciated! :)