Extraction Extraction Introduction Extractions use two immiscible phases to separate a solute from one phase into the other. The distribution of a solute between two phases is an equilibrium condition described by partition theory . More typical lab extractions are of organic compounds out of an aqueous phase and into an organic phase. Solids are usually dissolved or digested in caustic solution and liquids are sometimes extracted to separate the analyte from interferences.
Organic analysis is often much more complicated.