Concentration Formula:
From: | To: |
Definition: This calculator determines the equilibrium molar concentration of a solute in a second phase based on its concentration in the first phase and the distribution coefficient.
Purpose: It's essential for chemical engineering, pharmaceutical sciences, and environmental chemistry to understand solute partitioning between phases.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The concentration in the second phase is calculated by dividing the concentration in the first phase by the distribution coefficient.
Details: Understanding solute distribution between phases is crucial for extraction processes, drug formulation, and environmental contaminant analysis.
Tips: Enter the solute concentration in the first phase (mol/m³) and the distribution coefficient. Both values must be > 0.
Q1: What is a distribution coefficient?
A: It's the ratio of concentrations of a compound in a mixture of two immiscible phases at equilibrium.
Q2: What are typical units for concentration?
A: While mol/m³ is used here, other common units include mol/L or g/L. Ensure consistent units in calculations.
Q3: When is this calculation particularly useful?
A: In liquid-liquid extraction, drug partitioning between water and membranes, and environmental fate studies.
Q4: Can this be used for gas-liquid systems?
A: Yes, but the distribution coefficient would be the Henry's Law constant in such cases.
Q5: What affects the distribution coefficient?
A: Temperature, pH, solvent properties, and solute characteristics all influence the distribution coefficient.