Separation of Solids from Liquids

Key Concepts

• Insoluble Solid: A solid that does not dissolve in a liquid (e.g., sand in water).
• Soluble Solid: A solid that dissolves in a liquid forming a solution (e.g., sodium chloride in water).
  • Solution: Combination of a solute (solid) and a solvent (liquid).

Techniques for Separation

1. Filtration

• Used to separate insoluble solids from liquids.
• Process:
  • Use filter paper with tiny holes, placed within a filter funnel.
  • Liquid passes through the paper, leaving solids behind.

2. Evaporation

• Used for separating soluble solids from liquids.
• Process:
  • Place solution in an evaporating dish or crucible.
  • Heat gently using a Bunsen burner.
  • Solvent evaporates, and the solution becomes more concentrated.
  • Crystals form as solvent disappears, leaving dry solid crystals.
• Advantages:
  • Quick and easy.
• Disadvantage:
  • Solids prone to thermal decomposition may break down.

3. Crystallization

• Alternative to evaporation for solids that decompose upon heating.
• Process:
  • Use a gentler heat source, like a water bath, to heat the solution.
  • Once crystals start forming, stop heating and let cool.
  • As it cools, more crystals form since solubility decreases at lower temperatures.
  • Filter out crystals using filter paper and funnel.
  • Dry crystals by leaving them in a warm place or using an oven.

Conclusion

• Both methods have their applications depending on the properties of the solid.
• Crystallization is preferred for heat-sensitive solids to prevent decomposition.

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