SOLUBILITY TESTS. To determine the functional group, it is recommended to start with solubility test and then conduct functional group classification tests. The solubility measurements are done at room temperature with 1-2 drops of liquid or 5 mg of a solid (finely crushed), and 1 mL of solvent. Place the appropriate amount of either solid or liquid unknown in a small test tube. Shake the tube and/or stir with a glass stirring rod. A soluble unknown will form a homogeneous solution with water, while an insoluble liquid will remain as a separate phase. The results from the solubility tests can significantly help in determining which classification tests should then be performed, or at least narrow down the list. The solubility tests are summarized in the flow charts below.
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Sources: Laboratory Safety and Experiment Guidelines, Laboratory Safety and Experiment Guidelines, Laboratory Safety and Experiment Guidelines