Assessment of the chemical purity is a tedious task when you buy research liquids. The examination calls for different methods and procedures to know the composition of a particular chemical compound. The essential part of checking the chemical purity is knowing about the compound’s components and physical properties. Mentioned below are some methods used to determine a chemical compound’s purity.
1. Making Use of Radiolabeled Compounds
Radiolabeled compounds are a particular type of carbon compound used in biochemical and chemical processes. It is used for understanding the components of the compound. These compounds are generally used at the stage of drug development and highlight the combination of two molecules forming the particular compound.
Hence, the radiolabeled compounds are of great use in determining the chemical and physical properties of the compound. Drug manufacturers examine drugs through their physical and chemical properties.
2. Physical Distinction with Pure Benchmark
One of the simplest forms of checking the purity of a chemical compound is through physical distinction. It helps in understanding the purity of a chemical compound by comparing it with a pre-approved pure sample. However, this method is under constant argument as it only compares physical properties.
But, on a positive note, the physical comparison helps determine large amounts of impurities like color and dirt impurities. You must also note that only non-toxic chemicals can be examined through smell, touch, or taste.
3. Melting Point and Boiling Point
It is apparent that the physical properties of a chemical substance can help determine whether it’s pure or not. Almost every chemical product has its specific melting and boiling points. Each chemical compound is known to melt and boil at specific temperatures, which are documented.
In case the melting point of the chemical compound is lowered to a certain level, then there is a high chance that the compound is impure. However, the boiling point will be higher than usual. This is the simplest form of determining the purity of the chemical compound.
4. Colorimetric Method
This is another well-known method for knowing the purity of any chemical compound. In biochemical terms, certain chemical compounds tend to change their color when they are combined or exposed to another chemical.
This method determines the purity by checking the color of the compound. One of the most significant applications of this method is determining the presence of illegal drugs like heroin and cocaine. The method also helps determine the percentage of purity of the chemical compound.
5. Analytical Testing
Even though there are many other strategies for determining the purity of a chemical compound, the most accurate way is through analytical testing. It is a standard testing process for examining various chemicals. The drugs and chemical industries use this process to test the purity of the chemicals. Also, this test shows the number of impurities present in the chemical compounds.
The Bottom Line
These were some of the basic strategies used to determine chemical compounds’ purity. You can select any of the methods mentioned above depending on resource availability and the magnitude of the procedure. However, any of these methods shall show the impurities present in the chemical compound.
