Question

what solvent(s) should be used initially to separate the organic compounds from the inorganic compounds in the soil?

Answer 1

To separate organic compounds from inorganic compounds in soil, an appropriate solvent would be a non-polar organic solvent, such as dichloromethane or hexane.

Step-by-step explanation:

The choice of solvent for extracting organic compounds from soil depends on the nature of the compounds. Organic compounds are often non-polar, so non-polar solvents are effective for extraction. Dichloromethane and hexane are common choices due to their low polarity and ability to dissolve a wide range of organic compounds. These solvents help break the bonds between organic molecules and the soil particles, allowing for efficient extraction. In contrast, polar solvents like water are better suited for extracting inorganic compounds.