Solvent extraction
Solvent Extraction
Solvent extraction (pronunciation: /ˈsɒlvənt ɪkˈstrækʃən/), also known as liquid-liquid extraction or partitioning, is a method to separate compounds based on their relative solubilities in two different immiscible liquids, usually water and an organic solvent.
Etymology
The term "solvent extraction" comes from the Latin words "solvēre" meaning "to loosen, untie, solve" and "extraction" derived from "extrahere" meaning "to draw out".
Process
The process of solvent extraction involves four main steps:
- The two solvents are mixed together. The solute, or the substance to be extracted, is more soluble in one of the solvents.
- The solute is extracted from the initial solvent into the second solvent.
- The two solvents are separated.
- The solute is recovered from the second solvent.
Applications
Solvent extraction is widely used in chemical and biochemical industries, including the production of fine organic compounds, purification of natural products, and recovery of valuable metal ions from solutions. In the medical field, it is used in drug manufacturing and testing, and in the extraction of essential oils and other natural substances.
Related Terms
- Partition coefficient: The ratio of concentrations of a compound in the two phases of a mixture of two immiscible solvents at equilibrium.
- Separation process: A method that transforms a mixture or solution of chemical substances into two or more distinct product mixtures.
- Organic solvent: A type of solvent which contains carbon and is used to dissolve other substances.
- Aqueous phase: The water-based part of a mixture, in which water-soluble compounds are dissolved.
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