Final answer:
When used for differential extraction, dichloromethane (DCM) forms the lower layer while water (H₂O) forms the upper layer in a separating funnel, due to DCM's higher density. . The correct statement with reference to the properties of DCM and water in a separating funnel is: DCM and H₂O would stay as lower and upper layer respectively in the separating funnel (S.F.), which corresponds to option B.
Step-by-step explanation:
If dichloromethane (DCM) and water (H₂O) are used for differential extraction, one needs to consider the densities of the two liquids. Dichloromethane has a density greater than water; therefore, DCM will form the lower layer while water will form the upper layer in a separating funnel. This is similar to the behavior of other nonpolar liquids like bromine when mixed with water, where the nonpolar liquid usually forms the lower layer due to its higher density.
Dichloromethane and water are not miscible. They do not form an ideal solution like methanol and ethanol, or pentane and hexane due to the significant differences in their intermolecular forces. Water is polar, while DCM, being a haloalkane, is nonpolar and hydrophobic, making them immiscible. In a separatory funnel, after shaking and allowing the mixture to settle, the two liquids will separate into two distinct layers based on their densities. They are immiscible, which makes the arrangement of layers predictable based on their densities.