Question

In the extraction of an organic compound from a dilute aqueous solution, will the organic solvent form the uppoer or lower layer when each of the following solvent is used?
a. chloroform
b. cyclohexane
c. heptane
d. dichloromethane

Answer 1

I would look up the density of the solvents. I would assume a density of 1.00 g/cc for water since the problem specifies a dilute solution, then compare the density of the solvent with the density of water. Density greater than water the solvent sinks. Density lower than water the solvent floats.