melting+point+determination

__Melting Point Determination__
Used to identify a solid, or used as an indicator of purity.

Many organic compounds crystallize when solidified.



A crystalline solid will have a repetitive pattern of molecules called a lattice. This lattice is held together by intermolecular forces, and can be broken by heating.

Hence, the crystal will break down (melt) at a specific temperature range.

Impurities will disrupt a crystal lattice and will cause the melting point to decrease. Think of spreading salt on ice - the salt will disrupt the water's crystal structure and decrease its melting point.