Question

Discuss one separation method in regards to organic chemistry with an example, it can be any method.

Answer 1

Typical separation method used in organic chemistry is EXTRACTION

we typically have:

aqueous solution ( water)

organic solution ( such as ether)

then, we use any substance of interest, let it be benzoic acid

since it is organic + polar, it will be in both phases... we can't chave this

so what we do is :

we add NaOH so the benzoic acid + OH- neutrlizes to form H2O + benzoate ion

the benzoate ion is ionic, thereofre, will only remain in the aqueoues layer

Then

we remove this layer

Add HCl (or any strong acid) and then we form the benzoic acid again, which is now separated form the organic layer