Question

What are some things you can try to recrystallize a compound if your initial recrystallization effort fails?

Answer 1

If the crystallization is failed initially then, one can try seeding method in which a tiny crystal of the sample is suspended in the solution due to which crystal formation can be initiated. Other way is one can use glass rod to scratch the walls of the test tube or boiling tube in which solution is present. By scratching, the rough surface is created and if crystallization would have to happen, it will occur quickly. Last, one can try putting the hot solutions of crude in ice bath. If the crystallization would have to take time then by putting in ice would cool the solution quickly and crystal would appear although this is not preferred as it results in poor quality of crystal.