Differential Extraction is a technique to separate a compound from its solution in an aqueous solvent by shaking it with an immiscible organic solvent.

• Partition Law: The compound distributes itself between the two solvents according to its solubility in each. At equilibrium, the ratio of concentrations ($K=C_{organic}/C_{aqueous}$) is constant.
• Success: Multiple extractions with smaller volumes of solvent are more efficient than a single extraction with a large volume of solvent. The organic layer containing the compound is luego separated using a separating funnel.