Question:

A flask contains a mixture of isohexane and 3-methylpentane. One of the liquids boils at \(63^\circ\mathrm{C}\) while the other boils at \(60^\circ\mathrm{C}\). What is the best way to separate the two liquids and which one will be distilled out first ?

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Simple distillation works only if boiling points differ by about 40 K or more; isohexane is 2-methylpentane (b.p. 60 deg C), which is the more volatile.
Updated On: Nov 5, 2026
  • fractional distillation, 3-methylpentane
  • simple distillation, 3-methylpentane
  • fractional distillation, isohexane
  • simple distillation, isohexane
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

The two liquids are isomeric hexanes with boiling points only \(3^\circ\mathrm{C}\) apart. Simple distillation is suitable only when the difference is large (about \(40^\circ\mathrm{C}\)), so fractional distillation is the best method.
Isohexane (2-methylpentane, b.p. \(60^\circ\mathrm{C}\)) is more volatile than 3-methylpentane (b.p. \(63^\circ\mathrm{C}\)), so isohexane distils out first.
Answer: (3) fractional distillation, isohexane
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