Question

A compound possessing a carboxylic acid produces a yellow solution when dissolved in diethyl ether. This yellow solution is transferred to a separatory funnel and an aqueous solution of sodium chloride is added as well. After mixing the two solutions and allowing them to settle, two layers form. Which of the following statements is true about the resulting layers?
A. The top layer will be diethyl ether, and the top layer will be yellow.
B. The top layer will be diethyl ether, and the bottom layer will be yellow.
C. The bottom layer will be diethyl ether, and bottom layer will be yellow.
D. The bottom layer will be diethyl ether , and the top layer will be yellow

Answer 1

Answer:

A. The top layer will be diethyl ether, and the top layer will be yellow.

Explanation:

The purpose of the addition of the saturated aqueous solution of polar solvents like sodium chloride in the liquid-liquid extraction techniques is to remove as well as separate any kind of water which may be dissolved in the ether. Water and sodium chloride are both polar and thus, they forms the bottom layer and only ether forms the top layer. The compound being organic and is colored is in the top layer with the ether.

Hence, answer - A. The top layer will be diethyl ether, and the top layer will be yellow.