Here's why ethanol is a good choice:

* Solubility: Benzocaine has good solubility in hot ethanol and limited solubility in cold ethanol. This difference in solubility is key for successful recrystallization.

* Polarity: Ethanol is a polar solvent, which is suitable for the moderately polar benzocaine molecule.

* Purity: Ethanol is readily available in high purity, which is important for obtaining pure benzocaine crystals.

Other solvents that can be used for benzocaine recrystallization:

* Methanol: Similar to ethanol, but slightly more polar.

* Acetone: A more volatile solvent, which can lead to faster crystallization but may require careful control of temperature.

Note: It's essential to choose a solvent that:

* Dissolves the desired compound at elevated temperatures.

* Has limited solubility for the compound at room temperature.

* Does not react with the compound.

* Is easily evaporated to allow for crystal formation.

Before attempting recrystallization, it's always a good idea to consult reliable sources, like chemistry textbooks or research articles, to ensure the best solvent choice for your specific needs.