Question

What is principle of separating immiscible liquids by separating funnel?

Answer 1

Definition: Those liquids which do not mix together in all proportions and form separate layers are called immiscible liquids.

Principle:

1. The principle involved in this method for the separation of two immiscible liquids is based on the difference in the densities of the liquids in the mixture.
2. The two immiscible liquids are taken in a separating funnel and are allowed to stand for some time.
3. Based on the difference in the densities of liquid components, the lighter liquid upper layer while the denser liquid forms the lower layer in the separating funnel.
4. The stop-cock of the funnel is then opened slowly to collect the lower layer i.e., the heavier liquid from the separating funnel.
5. When the lower layer completely runs down into a receiver placed below the funnel, the stop cock is then closed.
6. Later, the lighter liquid i.e., oil in the upper layer is removed by opening the stop-cock again and is collected in a separate receiver