In: Chemistry
If a DMC and bicarbonate solution were mixed and allowed to separate, which layer would likely be on top and why?
During the extraction process, the solvent with higher density will settle at the bottom. Whereas, the low-density solvent be on the top. This is just matter of higher the weight of the solvent will have a higher gravitational force (mgh).
Here we have two solutions DMC (dimethyl chloride) and bicarbonate solution (aqueous). The density of DMC is 1.07 g/mL. The bicarbonate solution has density 1 g/mL. So, the DMC solution has a higher mass per volume compared to the bicarbonate solution. So, the DMC solution will have higher gravitational force, therefore, DMC will settle at the bottom. Whereas, bicarbonate solution will go on the top of the DMC layer.