Which among the following purification methods is based on the principle of “Solubility” in two different solvents?
- A
Column Chromatography
- B
Sublimation
- C
Distillation
- D
Differential Extraction
Which among the following purification methods is based on the principle of “Solubility” in two different solvents?
Column Chromatography
Sublimation
Distillation
Differential Extraction
Correct answer:D
Standard Method
Given: The purification method is to be identified based on the principle of solubility in two different solvents.
Find: Which option follows this principle.
Differential extraction is a technique used to separate components of a mixture based on their different solubilities in two immiscible solvents. This method takes advantage of the differing affinities of the components for the solvents to achieve separation.
In this method, a mixture is dissolved in a solvent where one component is more soluble than the others. When a second solvent that does not mix with the first is added, the less soluble components will preferentially move into the second solvent. This separation can be repeated several times to improve purity.
Column Chromatography uses a stationary phase and a mobile phase for separation based on different interactions, not solely solubility.
Sublimation involves phase change from solid to gas and back to solid, not based on solubility.
Distillation separates components based on differences in boiling points, not solubility.
Therefore, the purification method based on solubility in two different solvents is Differential Extraction. The correct option is D.
The solution also contains a discrepancy where one header marks the correct option as C, but the explanation and conclusion clearly identify Differential Extraction, which corresponds to D.
Option-wise Analysis
Given: A purification method based on differing solubility in two immiscible solvents is asked.
Find: The correct option among the four methods.
Column Chromatography: This method separates compounds based on differential adsorption and desorption between a stationary phase and a mobile phase. It is not primarily based on solubility in two liquid solvents.
Sublimation: This method purifies solids by converting them directly from solid to vapour and then back to solid. Its basis is phase change, not solvent solubility.
Distillation: This method separates substances using differences in boiling points or volatility. It is not based on distribution between two solvents.
Differential Extraction: This method directly uses the unequal distribution of a compound between two immiscible solvents depending on relative solubility in each solvent.
Hence, the correct answer is Differential Extraction, so the correct option is D.
Confusing differential extraction with column chromatography. Column chromatography involves stationary and mobile phases with adsorption effects, whereas differential extraction depends on distribution between two immiscible solvents based on solubility.
Choosing distillation because it is also a purification method. Distillation is governed by differences in boiling points, not by solubility in two solvents. Always match the principle named in the question to the method.
Selecting sublimation for any purification of solids. Sublimation works only when a substance changes directly from solid to vapour on heating; it does not use solvent solubility at all.
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