solvent extraction

Liquid-liquid extraction, also known as solvent extraction and partitioning, is a method to separate compounds based on their relative solubilities in two different immiscible liquids, usually water and an organic solvent. It is an of a substance from one liquid phase into another liquid phase. Liquid-liquid extraction is a basic technique in chemical laboratories, where it is performed using a separatory funnel. This type of process is commonly performed after a chemical reaction as part of the work-up.
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Solvent extraction, n a method of extracting essential oils in which chemical solvents dissolve plant resins and produce absolutes. [more]Solvent extraction - Community and Resources

Solvent extraction is a method for separating mixtures by exploiting differences in the solubilities of the components. For example, a coffee machine extracts the soluble components of ground coffee with water, and leaves the insoluble components behind. The sample is shaken or mixed with solvent (or with two immiscible solvents) to effect the separation. The "like dissolves like" is a useful guide for selecting solvents to use in the extraction. Nonpolar substances are usually successfully extracted into nonpolar solvents like hexane or methylene chloride. Polar and ionic substances are often extracted with water.