1.5 pts) The Rf value of compound A is 0.29 when developed in petroleum either and 0.44 when developed in dichloromethane. Compound B has an Rf value of 0.45 in petroleum either and 0.69 in dichloromethane. Which solvent would be better for separating a mixture of compounds A and B. Briefly explain your choice. What is petroleum ether

The better solvent for separating the mixture of A and B is dichloromethane

Explanation:

Petroleum ether is the mixture of hydrocarbons obtained from the petroleum distillation with a boiling range between 35 and 60°C. Is used as a solvent.

In the other hand, the best solvent for separating a mixture in TLC is the one that has the higher difference between RF's of the compounds.

The difference in RF's in dichloromethane is:

|0.44 - 0.69| = 0.25

In petroleum ether:

|0.29 - 0.45| = 0.16

That means the better solvent for separating the mixture of A and B is dichloromethane

water and alcohols have similar properties because water molecules contain hydroxyl groups that can form hydrogen bonds with other water molecules and with alcohol molecules, and likewise alcohol molecules can form hydrogen bonds with other alcohol molecules as well as with water.