This term is often used as a synonym for distribution and
extraction. However, an essential difference exists by definition between
distributionconstant or
partition ratio and
partition constant. The term partition should be, but is not invariably, applied to the distribution
of a single definite chemical species between the two phases.
Source:
PAC, 1993, 65, 2373
(Nomenclature for liquid-liquid distribution (solvent extraction) (IUPAC Recommendations
1993))
on page 2378