[tcraw033]

Hi
So my question is what is the role of the solutions of Na2SO3, Na2CO3, and NaCl in the isolation of the product.  (the lab is on expoxidation of (R)-(--)-Carvone with MCPBA)
So far I know that NaCl and Na2CO3 are used for drying agents and they are what we wash the organic layer with but we add 10% sodium sulfite to the solution before we do an extraction.  I was doing some research and I think it could be to make the reaction irreversible....But im not sure. I would love some advice.
THanks!

[sjb]

If I recall correctly, the sulfite is used to react with the peracid to form the acid and the sulfate. Peracids can be explosive if evaporated to dryness.

S