During solvent extraction in a laboratory, an organic solute dissolved in an aqueous solution is extracted using an organic solvent in a separating funnel. Which of the following conditions is essential for this separation method to work effectively?
- The solute must be significantly more soluble in the added organic solvent, and the two liquid solvents must be immiscible.Answer
- BThe organic solvent must have a higher boiling point than water so that it settles rapidly at the bottom of the funnel.
- CThe organic solvent must be completely miscible with water so that a single homogenous solution is formed.
- DThe solute must undergo a chemical reaction with the organic solvent to form an insoluble solid precipitate.
Answer
The solute must be significantly more soluble in the added organic solvent, and the two liquid solvents must be immiscible.
For solvent extraction to be effective, the added solvent must not mix with the original solvent (they must be immiscible to form two distinct layers), and the target solute must have a much higher solubility in the extracting solvent than in the original solvent.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Solvent Extraction and Immiscibility Principles
Estimated Time:45s