Which of the following is the structure of a separating funnel?
Practical Organic Chemistry · Class 11 · JEE Main Previous Year Question
Which of the following is the structure of a separating funnel?
- a✓
- b
- c
- d
Step 1: Identify the Function of a Separating Funnel
A separating funnel is used for differential extraction — separating two immiscible liquid layers (e.g., aqueous and organic layers). Key features:
- Pear-shaped or cylindrical glass body (to hold two liquid layers)
- Glass stopcock at the bottom (to drain the lower layer)
- Glass stopper at the top (to prevent spilling)
- Must be able to hold two distinct liquid phases that settle by density
Step 2: Distinguish from Other Glassware
| Glassware | Shape | Use | |---|---|---| | Separating funnel | Pear-shaped + stopcock | Liquid-liquid extraction | | Conical flask (Erlenmeyer) | Conical bottom, flat bottom | Reactions, titrations | | Buchner funnel | Flat-bottomed funnel | Vacuum filtration | | Thistle tube | Bulb + long tube | Adding liquids slowly |
Step 3: Identify the Correct Image
The separating funnel (option c) shows the characteristic pear-shaped body with a glass stopcock at the bottom.
- Options (a), (b), (d) show other types of glassware (likely conical flask, round-bottom flask, or other apparatus)
- Only option (c) shows the distinctive pear-shape with stopcock that defines a separating funnel
Answer: (c)
Key Points to Remember:
- Separating funnel: pear-shaped with stopcock at bottom
- Used for: extracting organic compounds from aqueous solution
- Operation: add both solvents → shake → allow layers to separate → drain lower layer from stopcock
- Always open the stopper to release pressure before draining
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