Asked by Scott

Is there a reaction between Na2SO4 with Ch2Cl2? We did a caffeine extraction from tea bags and we are asked why the Na2So4 was added (to remove water I learned) and if a reaction took place. Can someone help? Thanks!
Answered by GK
Anhydrous Na2SO4 does not react with CH2Cl2. It simply removes traces of water from the solvent, CH2Cl2, by forming a hydrate of Na2SO4 which settles to the bottom. Moisture in the dichloroethylene solvent could contaminate the caffeine residue after the solvent evaporates.
Answered by DrBob222
Did you use anhydrous Na2SO4? It form a decahydrate easily.
Na2SO4 + 10H2O ==> Na2SO4*10H2O.
The heptahydrate is known, also.
Answered by Scott
Thanks for the help! It is much clearer to me.
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