METHODOLOGY

The six compounds used for this

experiment
are
hexane,
heptane,
cyclohexane, cyclohexene, benzene, and
toluene. Different tests were also performed
on each of the compounds to determine the
type of hydrocarbon used in the sample.
The researchers performed the experiment
with precaution and complete safety gear.
A. Physical State, Color, Odor
First, the compounds were observed
at room temperature on its physical
appearance and state. Then the color was
noted carefully. Finally, through wafting, the
odor was also described.
B. Solubility in Concentrated H2SO4
Given that the researchers knew that
concentrated H2SO4 is corrosive, a drop of
each sample compound was added to
different test tubes with 1mL concentrated
H2SO4. The solubility or miscibility of the
solution was also noted.

made sure to dispose of the compounds in

the proper container to be able to continue
with the next tests.
E: Bromine Test
Again, 5 drops of the samples was
used and ten drops of 0.5% Br2 was added
in CCl4 reagent. The researchers then
monitored the rate and extent of color
change. An option in this test is to place
moist blue litmus paper at the mouth of the
test tube containing the samples to note
whether the sample is acidic or basic.
Lastly, the mixtures were compared to H2O,
exposed to sunlight, and recorded.
F. Test for Aromaticity: Nitration
2mL of concentrated HNO3 was
placed in an Erlenmeyer flask. The flask
was immersed in an evaporating dish
containing water. Gradually, 2 mL of
concentrated H2SO4 was added to it.

For the ignition test, either 3-5 drops

of the liquid samples or a pinch of the solid
sample was placed in an evaporating dish
and was lit with a match. The flammability of
the solution was recorded and additional
information was taken - like the formation of
soot and the burning time. This process was
repeated for all the different compounds.

The resulting mixture was cooled to

room temperature. This solution served as
the nitrating mixture. Then 8 drops of the
nitrating mixture was added to 5 drops of
the sample in a dry test tube and was
shaken to ensure complete mixing. The
formation of a yellow oily layer or droplet
was noted. The mixture was then diluted
with 20 drops of water. The test tube was
placed in a water bath for 10 minutes if
there is no apparent reaction observed
within a minute.

D. Baeyer's Test

G. Basic Oxidation

First, 5 drops of each sample was

placed in different test tubes. Next, 2 drops
of 2% KMnO4 was added in all the test
tubes to be able to observe the rate and
extent of decolorization of the reagents. The
researchers also took note of the brown
suspension formation and that was
compared with water. The researchers then

For this test, the researchers placed

4 drops of each sample in different test
tubes. Next, 1 drop of 2% KMnO4, 7 drops
of distilled H2O, and 3 drops of 10% NaOH
solution was added to the test tubes. Each
test tube was then warmed in a water bath
for 2 minutes and the color change in each
solution was observed.

C. Ignition Test