caution
due to the volatility of methylene chloride,presssure can quickly build up in your separatory funnel if your aqueous phase is warm
be sure to vent your separatory funnel frequently during the extraction
combine the organic layers and dry over anhydrous sodium sulfate
decant to remove the drying agent,and then remove the methylene chloride from the solution by placing it in a pre-weighed side arm flask, stoppering it, and applyjng vacuum until bubbling is no longer apparent
placing your side-arm flask in a tub of warm water will help evaporate the methylene chloride in a timely fashion
white plastic tubs can be found on the shelves in the back of the lab