Frequently Asked Question

Questions asked by users might not always be phrased in the clearest way.

P-aminobenzoic acid in ethanol and then add sulfuric acid. Once the sulfuric acid is dissolved a white solid will likely precipitate out. What is the white precipitate

Accepted Answer

The white precipitate is likely p-aminobenzoic acid (PABA). Here's why:

Solubility: PABA is more soluble in ethanol than in water. When you add sulfuric acid, it protonates the amino group of PABA, making it less soluble in ethanol. This reduced solubility leads to precipitation.

Reaction: The reaction of PABA with sulfuric acid is an acid-base reaction. The sulfuric acid acts as a proton donor, and the amino group of PABA acts as a proton acceptor. The resulting protonated PABA is less soluble in ethanol.
Note: The exact solubility and the amount of precipitate formed will depend on the concentrations of PABA, ethanol, and sulfuric acid.


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