The active component(s) primarily responsible for transfer of a solute from one phase
to the other.
Notes:
-
The term extracting agent is a synonym but solvent and ligand should not be used in
this context.
-
Certain extractants that consist of liquids immiscible with water (e.g. tributyl phosphate
or certain ketones) might comprise the only component of the initial organic phase but extractant(s)
can also be dissolved in diluent.
Source:
PAC, 1993, 65, 2373
(Nomenclature for liquid-liquid distribution (solvent extraction) (IUPAC Recommendations
1993))
on page 2380