Question

1. Why is the drying agent added to the ether layer after extraction?

2. How much eugonel is found in cloves?

Answer 1

Answer 1:

Drying agents are added after extraction to completely dry the product and remove the dissolved solvents. Many organic solvents are immiscible in aqueous solutions but are miscible in polar solvents. The higher the polarity, the more hygroscopic it becomes.

Calcium sulphate, Magnesium sulphate and Sodium sulphate are the commonly used agents used for drying ethers.

Answer 2:

Eugonel is the key ingredient of cloves. Cloves contain between 80-95% eugonels. It is actively used by dentists to kill germs, reduce imflammation of gums because of its anti-inflamatory and anti-septic properties.