Question

discuss problems that may be faced in solvent extraction experiment, including low recovery yield, and list what couldne learned from this experiment and what would you do different next times?

Answer 1

First before we answer this question we need to understand how the solvent extraction works

What is principle behind it

Solvent extraction is a technique of seperating a mixture using a heterogeneous liquid mixture which is immiscible In nature. In this mixture one part is polar in nature and other part is non polar in nature

When we add our mixture in this heterogeneous liquid mixture the sample gets distributed in the both parts differently based on its solubility in each part

This method is called liquid liquid extraction also.

There are various problems which can occur in this experiment.

One problem is that before we start seperating two layers quickly if we don't shake the seperating funnel for a good amount of time then the sample doesn't distribute between the layers as expected and hence the yield can be poor.

Another problem that may happen is if we don't choose the 2 layers polar and non polar correctly then also it can lead to poor yield

Before we choose the both layers in the solvent extraction it is necessary to observe the samples solubility in that liquid.

There are various things that we can learn from this experiment

Selecting the both layers for solvent extraction is important.

Shaking the seperating funnel vigorously for good amount of time is also necessary

I hope this helps. If you have any query or want more detailed explanation, feel free to ask in the comments section below.