Textbook Question
Write the balanced chemical equation for the complete combustion of each of the following compounds:
c. 2,3-dimethylhexane
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12. Introduction to Organic Chemistry
Alkane Reactions
Problem 19d
Textbook Question
Heptane, used as a solvent for rubber cement, has a density of 0.68 g/mL and boils at 98 °C.
d. Will heptane float on water or sink?
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Recall the principle of buoyancy, which states that an object will float on a liquid if its density is less than the density of the liquid. Conversely, it will sink if its density is greater than the liquid's density.
Step 2: Identify the density of heptane from the problem, which is given as 0.68 g/mL.
Step 3: Compare the density of heptane to the density of water. The density of water is approximately 1.00 g/mL at standard conditions.
Step 4: Determine whether 0.68 g/mL (density of heptane) is less than or greater than 1.00 g/mL (density of water).
Step 5: Conclude whether heptane will float or sink based on the comparison of densities. If heptane's density is less than water's density, it will float; otherwise, it will sink.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Density
Density is defined as mass per unit volume, typically expressed in grams per milliliter (g/mL) for liquids. A substance will float on a liquid if its density is less than that of the liquid. In this case, heptane has a density of 0.68 g/mL, which is less than the density of water (approximately 1.00 g/mL), indicating that heptane is less dense than water.
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Density
Buoyancy
Buoyancy is the upward force exerted by a fluid that opposes the weight of an object immersed in it. An object will float if the buoyant force is equal to or greater than its weight. Since heptane is less dense than water, it will experience a buoyant force sufficient to keep it afloat, confirming that it will float on water.
Phase Behavior of Liquids
Phase behavior refers to how different substances interact and behave in various states of matter. In the case of heptane and water, they are immiscible liquids, meaning they do not mix. This immiscibility, combined with the density difference, results in heptane forming a distinct layer on top of water, further supporting the conclusion that it will float.
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