How Many Extractions Are Needed to Reduce Stearic Acid to 0.08%?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the number of extractions required to reduce the concentration of stearic acid in acetic acid to 0.08% using n-heptane as the extraction solvent. The distribution constant of stearic acid between n-heptane and acetic acid is established at 4.95 at 25 °C. Participants emphasize the importance of understanding the distribution constant and its implications for determining the residual concentration of stearic acid after each extraction. A single extraction leaves approximately 0.92% of the original stearic acid in the acetic acid layer, highlighting the need for precise calculations and definitions in the extraction process.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of distribution constants in liquid-liquid extraction
  • Familiarity with the concept of successive extractions
  • Basic knowledge of concentration calculations
  • Proficiency in using equations related to extraction processes
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  • Study the principles of liquid-liquid extraction and distribution constants
  • Learn how to calculate residual concentrations after multiple extractions
  • Explore the use of n-heptane in organic solvent extractions
  • Review relevant equations for calculating extraction efficiency
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Chemistry students, chemical engineers, and professionals involved in separation processes who are looking to optimize extraction techniques and understand the dynamics of solute distribution between solvents.

il postino
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Homework Statement
Determine the number of extractions from a solution
Relevant Equations
ni (alfa) = ni . f^n
Hi all!
The distribution constant of stearic acid between n-heptane and acetic acid is 4.95 at
25 ° C. Determine the number of extractions from a solution of stearic acid in acid
acetic acid, with successive portions of n-heptane of equal volume to the solution, necessary
to reduce the residual content of stearic acid in the acetic acid layer to 0.08% of
its original value.I don't know where to start, could you help me?
 
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How much original stearic acid (what fraction of it) is left in the acetic acid after a single extraction?
 
[QUOTE = "Borek, publicación: 6389436, miembro: 23711"]
¿Cuánto ácido esteárico original (qué fracción) queda en el ácido acético después de una única extracción?
[/ CITAR]

0.92%?
 
Show how you got this number (doesn't look right to me).
 
And your relevant equations are pretty unhelpful. If you wrote out the definition of distribution constant, and defined what symbols mean you would be most of the way to solving the problem.
 

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