[FAN7OM]

In my lab we distilled a solution of acetone and salt water, and a constant temperature of the solution was found to be 50 celsius (56 is BP of acetone). I understand that the salt in the water helps create an organic and aqueous layer, where the acetone is found in organic layer.

Would the distillation still work if only water were used instead of salt water? and would the azeotrope be broken if there was no salt?

[DrCMS]

acetone and water do not form an azeotrope

[orgopete]

Yes, the lower boiling acetone would still boil first. If no salt were present, then the solution would be a single layer as acetone is miscible in water.

[FAN7OM]

acetone and water do not form an azeotrope

I did some more research and you are correct, acetone and water do not form an azeotrope. However I noticed that the boiling point of a mixture containing both acetone and water was lower than the boiling point of either substance, so I thought this was an azeotrope.

Would you be able to explain to me why these two do not form an azeotrope? Would appreciate it very much!