What is a separatory funnel?

Also known as a separating funnel or separation funnel, a separatory funnel is a standard piece of glass equipment used in laboratories for performing extractions. It has a tap at the bottom that is used to control how the two immiscible liquids put in it are separated.

Mostly, the mixed liquids put through a separatory funnel are expected to form two separate aqueous and organic phases. A separating funnel is made up of a conical glass body with a stopper and a stopcock on top. The conical shape enhances the equipment function as it allows clear and easier separation of the two layers due to the small interface on its lower end.