Question

The best and latest technique for isolation, purification and separation of organic compounds is: (a) Crystallisation (b) Distillation (c) Sublimation (d) Chromatography

Short answer

Chromatography is the best technique for the task.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the problem

We need to determine which method is considered the best and most recent technique for the isolation, purification, and separation of organic compounds. Each option represents a different technique with distinct applications.

Reviewing techniques

1. **Crystallisation** is used to purify solid compounds based on their solubility differences. 2. **Distillation** involves separating components based on differences in boiling points. 3. **Sublimation** is used for solids that transition from solid to gas without becoming liquid. 4. **Chromatography** involves separating components based on their movement through a medium.

Comparing effectiveness

Chromatography is recognized both for its versatility in separating complex mixtures and for providing high-resolution separation and is often the method of choice in modern applications. It is widely used for qualitative and quantitative analyses.

Conclusion

Given its advanced capabilities for separating complex mixtures with high specificity and precision, the best and latest technique among the given options is chromatography.

Key concepts

Isolation Techniques in Chemistry

Isolation techniques are essential in chemistry to obtain pure substances from mixtures. These methods are crucial for researchers and colleagues conducting experiments to ensure the accuracy of their findings. Among the various isolation methods, chromatography stands out due to its efficiency and versatility in separating intricate mixtures by leveraging the differential movement of components through a medium.
Chromatography can be tailored to isolate compounds that are closely similar in chemical makeup, which makes it powerful for complex mixtures. This adaptability is due, in part, to various types of chromatography like gas, liquid, or paper chromatography, each offering distinct advantages for specific kinds of samples.
By selecting a suitable stationary and mobile phase in chromatography, scientists can effectively isolate the desired component from a mixture. This process entails the compound of interest moving at a different speed compared to other mixture components, enabling its isolation from other substances.

Purification of Organic Compounds

Purification of organic compounds is a vital step in ensuring that substances are free from impurities. Organic chemists understand the necessity for high purity levels, whether for academic studies, pharmaceutical developments, or industrial applications.
Chromatography plays a critical role in purification, especially when traditional methods like crystallization might fall short. Its ability to handle complex compositions allows it to distinguish and purify minute differences in molecular structures. This makes chromatography unparalleled in purifying compounds that require extremely precise separation.
Moreover, this technique enables chemists to determine purity visually by observing discrete bands or spots of the separated components in a chromatographic process. Further refinement can be achieved by repeated passes through the chromatographic medium, steadily enhancing the purity level of the organic compound.

Separation Techniques in Chemistry

Separation techniques are foundational in both analytical and preparative chemistry. They are employed to divide mixtures into individual chemical entities. Effective separation is critical in many fields, from environmental analysis to pharmaceuticals, where precise component isolation is crucial.
Different separation techniques, such as distillation or sublimation, depend heavily on the properties of the substances being separated, like boiling point or sublimation point.
Chromatography distinctly excels in separating chemically similar substances, often missed by other means. It functions by partitioning solutes based on their interaction with stationary and mobile phases, hence offering fine-tuned separation that maximizes precision and accuracy.
This advantage makes chromatography the go-to method especially when dealing with complex or sensitive mixtures, providing clarity and detailed separation outcomes that enrich the understanding and development of chemical analysis.