Aqueous Complexing Agents
If a complexing agent is present in the aqueous phase then it can lower the distribution ratio. For instance, in the case of iodine being distributed between water and an inert organic solvent such as carbon tetrachloride then the presence of iodide in the aqueous phase can alter the extraction chemistry.
Instead of being a constant it becomes = k]/ ]
This is because the iodine reacts with the iodide to form I3-. The I3- anion is an example of a polyhalide anion that is quite common.
Read more about this topic: Two-phase Liquid Extraction
Famous quotes containing the word agents:
“Modern man’s capacity for destruction is quixotic evidence of humanity’s capacity for reconstruction. The powerful technological agents we have unleashed against the environment include many of the agents we require for its reconstruction.”
—George F. Will (b. 1941)