The distinction between the
distribution constant() and the
partition constant() or the concentration distribution ratio
()
is reaffirmed and it is recommended that the terms
partition constant,
partition coefficient and
extinction constant should not be used as synonyms for the (analytical)
distribution ratio,
. A distinction is drawn between the terms solvent and diluent, and the term
extractant is now restricted to the active substance in the solvent (i.e. the homogeneous '
organic phase' which comprises the
extractant, the diluent and/or the modifier) which is primarily responsible for the transfer
of solute from the '
aqueous' to the '
organic' phase.