In: Chemistry
A sample of ibuprofen is contaminated with thymol. Both organic compounds are solids at room temperature, soluble in diethyl ether, and insoluble in water.
B) Predict and explain the relative reactivity of ibuprofen and thymol with i) aq. potassium hydroxide solution ii) aq. potassium bicarbonate solution. Assume that the mixture containing both compounds are dissolved in diethyl ether solution. Include chemical equations as appropriate.
C) Construct a flow chart to explain how you would use acid-base extraction techniques to separate the mixture of ibuprofen and thymol into its individual components. Show all steps necessary. Clearly indicate the location of each species at each point in the process and include chemical equations as appropriate.