Question

How are the organic layer and aqueous layer identified in the separatory funnel? Select one:

a. It's a layer between the aqueous and organic layers that do not separate cleanly into two layers
b. It goes by density, the heavier compound will be on the bottom, and however the less dense will be on top
c. Saturating the aqueous phase with salt such as NaCl
d. The ratio of the concentration or solubility of the substance in the organic phase to that in aqueous phase. K = Cₒ/C

Answer 1

The organic and aqueous layers in a separatory funnel are identified by their densities, with the denser aqueous layer usually at the bottom. The stopcock is used to drain the layers accordingly after they have separated. Therefore correct option is B

Step-by-step explanation:

The organic layer and aqueous layer in a separatory funnel are identified primarily by their densities. In a mixture of two immiscible liquids, the layer with the higher density will be at the bottom, while the less dense layer will float on top. Normally, the aqueous layer, which is water-based, is denser and thus settles beneath the organic layer, which is typically made up of less dense, non-polar solvents like hexane or ether.

Once the layers are separated, the stopcock at the bottom of the funnel can be opened to allow the denser liquid (typically the aqueous layer) to be drained first, followed by the organic layer. This method of separation leverages the differences in densities and solubilities to achieve extraction of substances based on where they are more soluble, following the partition coefficient (K) between the two phases.