Question

Explain how immiscible liquids are separated using a separating funnel.

Answer 1

Separating funnel :

• It is used to separate a mixture of immiscible liquids.
• This method is based on the principle that in immiscible liquids, the lighter liquid floats above the layer of the heavier liquid.
• A separating funnel is a glass apparatus that is narrow at the bottom with a stopcock .
• The funnel has an opening at the top to pour liquid mixture.
• After the liquid mixture is poured,it is left undisturbed for some time.
• Immiscible liquids form separate layers with the heavier liquid at the bottom and the lighter liquid at the top.
• When the stopcock is opened,the heavier liquid at the bottom moves out first and is collected in a separate container.
• When the bottom layer flows out completely, the stopcock is closed.
• Only lighter liquid remains in the separating funnel.

Application : This method is used to separate oil from water.