The separatory funnel must be vented often during the shaking process to relieve excess vapour pressure. ... The stem of the funnel should be pointed into a fumehood during the venting process to avoid spraying anyone with the contents of the funnel.

What happens if you dont vent a separatory funnel?

What happens if you forget to remove the stopper prior to opening the separatory funnels stopcock and attempting to drain out the lower layer? The stopper has to be removed when draining the lower layer. If the stopper were not removed, a vacuum will build up above the liquid upon draining.

Why should you vent the separatory funnel periodically when performing an extraction involving organic solvents?

why should you vent the separatory funnel periodically when performing an extraction involving organic solvents? Mixing increases the evaporation of volatile organic solvents creating pressure in the closed space of a separatory funnel.