Separatory funnels are used in the lab for liquid-liquid extractions, separating a mixture's components into two solvent phases of different densities. The higher density liquid sinks to the bottom and can then be drained from a valve, leaving the less dense liquid in the funnel.

Where is separating funnel used?

A separatory funnel, also known as a separation funnel, separating funnel, or colloquially sep funnel, is a piece of laboratory glassware used in liquid-liquid extractions to separate (partition) the components of a mixture into two immiscible solvent phases of different densities.

When would you use a separatory funnel?

2. Support the separatory funnel in a ring on a ringstand. You will be provided with a ring stand and a ring Stands and rings can come in many different sizes. You should check to be sure that the ring you have chosen is compatible with the separatory funnel that you are using.