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?

Question

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.