Figure 2 illustrates the separation of immiscible liquids. Identify the process, state the principle, name the parts, suggest an alternative process, and give examples.

Here are the answers to the questions based on Figure 2:

a) Identify the process.

• The process is the separation of immiscible liquids (or liquid-liquid extraction).

b) State the principle on which this experiment works.

• The experiment works on the principle that immiscible liquids have different densities, causing them to form distinct layers, with the denser liquid settling at the bottom.

c) Name the parts labelled I, II, III and IV.

• I: Retort stand (or clamp stand)
• II: Beaker (or receiving beaker)
• III: Stopcock (or tap)
• IV: Immiscible liquid (less dense than water)

d) What other process could be used for the same experiment?

• While a separating funnel is the most efficient apparatus for this, a less precise method for separating immiscible liquids is simple decantation (carefully pouring off the top layer).

e) Give three (3) examples of pair of immiscible liquids that the apparatus illustrated could be used for the same process identified in (a) above.

• 1. Kerosene and water
• 2. Cooking oil and water
• 3. Tetrachloromethane and water