A solution of p-toluidine in diethyl ether is placed in a separatory funnel. An equal volume of 5% aqueous HCl is then added and the mixture is stoppered, shaken and then allowed to reach equilibrium. Since diethyl ether is immiscible with aqueous solvents, the mixture forms two layers: an aqueous layer and a diethyl ether layer.
a) Which solvent forms the upper layer? Briefly explain your choice.
(I’m pretty sure the diethyl ether layer is on top, due to the strong hydrogen bonds in the aqueous layer, but I think I need more of an explanation)
b)What does the aqueous layer contain? Briefly explain your choice.
(Also pretty sure the aqueous layer contains p-toluidine chloride and an excess of HCl, but I again need help with an explanation)
5% aqueous NaOH is now carefully added until the aqueous layer has a neutral pH (i.e. the mixture is neutralized), then the flask is stoppered, shaken and then allowed to stand to reach equilibrium again.
c) Now, what do each of the layer contain? Briefly explain your choice.
(completely lost on this one)
