Final answer:
An equivalence partition refers to the distribution of a compound between two immiscible phases when equilibrium is reached, used for separation based on solubility. For example, in liquid-solid partitioning, a solute can move from a liquid phase to a solid phase if it has a favorable partition coefficient.
Step-by-step explanation:
An equivalence partition refers to the division of a compound between a mixture of two immiscible phases when equilibrium is reached. This represents the differential solubility of the compound in these phases. If one solvent is a gas and the other is a liquid, the partitioning is described with the 'gas/liquid partition coefficient,' akin to the dimensionless form of Henry's law constant. Similarly, partitioning between solid phases, or a solid and a liquid, can also occur, like in a solid solution.
For instance, if you have two solutes in one phase and only one solute has a favorable partition coefficient to move to the second phase, a separation of the solutes is possible through this partitioning process. Using practical terms, if we are to calculate the conversion factor based on equivalences, we could determine the number of eggs needed for a given amount of pancake mix by constructing a conversion factor that equals 1.
A real-world example of equivalence partition is liquid-solid partitioning. Suppose a sample is dissolved in a liquid phase and we bring it into contact with a solid phase. If the partition coefficient is favorable, the solute will move from the liquid to the solid phase, enabling the separation of compounds based on their solubility characteristics.