Copper can be extracted from a solution using a solvent extraction method, particularly when the solution is very dilute.
Here's a breakdown of the process based on the provided reference:
The very dilute solution containing copper is brought into contact with a relatively small amount of an organic solvent. This organic solvent contains a substance that will bind with the copper(II) ions, effectively removing them from the dilute aqueous solution. Crucially, the solvent must not mix with the water to allow for separation. (30-Jun-2023)
In simpler terms:
- Contact: Mix the copper-containing water solution with an organic solvent.
- Binding: The solvent contains a special chemical that grabs onto the copper ions.
- Separation: Since the organic solvent doesn't mix with the water, you can easily separate the solvent (now containing the copper) from the water.
- Recovery: The copper is then recovered from the organic solvent using further chemical processes.
