Question

Describe the process of liquid/liquid extraction using diethyl ether and water.

Which layer is on top. Is it considered organic or aqueous? explain in depth please

Answer 1

Liquid–liquid extraction (LLE) consists in transferring one (or more) solute(s) contained in a feed solution to another immiscible liquid (solvent). The solvent that is enriched in solute(s) is called extract. The feed solution that is depleted in solute(s) is called raffinate.

Liquid–liquid extraction also known as solvent extraction and partitioning, is a method to separate compounds based on their relative solubilities in two different immiscible liquids, usually water and an organic solvent. It is an extraction of a substance from one liquid into another liquid phase. Liquid–liquid extraction is a basic technique in chemical laboratories, where it is performed using a variety of apparatus, from separatory funnels to countercurrent distribution equipment.This type of process is commonly performed after a chemical reaction as part of the work-up.

Compounds which are poorly miscible in organic solvents but highly miscible in water can be extracted into organic compounds either by (1) repetitive extraction with a separatory funnel or (2) by using a liquid-Liquid extractor.

Extraction methods differ depending upon the density of the solvent being used. Solvents more dense than water will require different glassware (or supplemental glassware) vs. solvents that are less dense than water. There are presently a number of setups that can do both. By adding a removable fritted glass tube, and closing the solvent return tap, the setup below can be used to extract water continuously with a solvent less dense than water (such as diethyl ether).