Question

If dichloromethane (DCM) and water ${(H_2O)}$ are used for differential extraction, which one of the following statements is correct ?

• A. DCM and ${(H_2O)}$ would stay as lower and upper layer respectively in the S.F.
• B. DCM and ${(H_2O)}$ will be miscible clearly
• C. DCM and ${(H_2O)}$ would stay as upper and lower layer respectively in the separating funnel (S.F.)
• D. DCM and ${(H_2O)}$ will make trubid/colloidal mixture

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

To solve this question, we need to understand the solubility and density properties of dichloromethane (DCM) and water (${H_2O}) when used in a differential extraction process in a separating funnel (S.F.).

1. Miscibility: DCM and water are immiscible liquids. This means they do not dissolve in each other and will thus form separate layers when mixed.
2. Density Consideration: The density of a liquid determines its position in a layer when two immiscible liquids are placed in a container.
   • The density of water is approximately 1 \, \text{g/cm}^3.
   • The density of DCM is approximately 1.33 \, \text{g/cm}^3.
   Since DCM is denser than water, it will form the lower layer.
3. Conclusion: Based on their densities, dichloromethane (DCM) will form the lower layer while water (${H_2O}) will form the upper layer in a separating funnel.

Therefore, the correct statement is: DCM and ${H_2O} would stay as lower and upper layer respectively in the S.F.