Why do some laboratory procedures involving oxygen-sensitive reactants or products call for using water that has been boiled and then cooled?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that oxygen-sensitive reactants or products can react with dissolved oxygen in water, which can affect the outcome of the experiment.
2. Recognize that boiling water helps to remove dissolved gases, including oxygen, by driving them out of the solution due to the increased temperature and decreased solubility of gases.
3. After boiling, allow the water to cool in a closed container to prevent reabsorption of oxygen from the air as it cools down.
4. Use the cooled, deoxygenated water in the laboratory procedure to minimize the risk of unwanted reactions with oxygen-sensitive substances.
5. Consider the importance of using deoxygenated water in experiments where the presence of oxygen could lead to oxidation or other side reactions that could interfere with the results.

Key Concepts

Oxygen Sensitivity

Oxygen sensitivity refers to the tendency of certain chemical substances to react with oxygen, which can lead to unwanted side reactions or degradation of the reactants or products. In laboratory procedures, oxygen-sensitive materials may undergo oxidation, affecting their stability and reactivity. Understanding this concept is crucial for handling such materials safely and effectively.

Dissolved Gases in Water

Water naturally contains dissolved gases, including oxygen, which can interfere with reactions involving oxygen-sensitive substances. Boiling water removes these dissolved gases by vaporization, creating a more inert environment. This is important in experiments where the presence of oxygen could alter the outcome or yield of the reaction.

Inert Atmosphere Techniques

Inert atmosphere techniques involve using gases like nitrogen or argon to create an environment devoid of reactive gases such as oxygen. These techniques are often employed in conjunction with using boiled water to ensure that both the solvent and the reaction environment are free from oxygen, thus preserving the integrity of oxygen-sensitive reactants and products during laboratory procedures.