separating funnel technique

• why do you add water

  to neutralise any excess acid or alkali that might be present
• when allowing the layers to separate, remove the lid
• when running off the bottom layer: take the lid off - to allow the air to replace the solvent being released
• if organic layer is on the bottom, what would be some suitable solvents?

  benzene

  chloroform

  carbon tetrachloride
• examples of drying agents

  anhydrous magnesium sulfate

  anhydrous calcium chloride
• benefits of flutted filter paper

  better for gravity filtration of organic solvent and its more efficient because there is more surface area
• STEPS:

  1. pour organic solution with funnel
  2. add same volume of aqueous solvent
  3. invert with lid
  4. let layers settle
  5. take lid off and run off bottom layer
  6. use drying agent
• Safety:

  1. ring clamp
  2. open tap periodically - release pressure when inverting
  3. hold stopper in place
  4. no open flames - most organic solvents are flammable
  5. harmful fumes - use fume cupboard/ well-ventilated room
  6. solvents disposal - within halogenated bottle, not sink