Question

Can we separate a mixture of kerosene and water? If yes, then explain the process. Also, state the principle behind the separation.

Answer 1

Yes, a mixture of kerosene and water can be separated using a separating funnel.

Process involved:

• Kerosene and water are immiscible with each other and they form separate layers when kept undisturbed for a while.
• The separation of layers occurs because of the difference in densities of both liquids. The lower layer is of water since it has more density than kerosene while kerosene stays at the top.
• Therefore the mixture of kerosene and water can be separated by a separating funnel, where water is collected in a separate container.

Principle involved: The principle behind the separation is that the immiscible liquids separate out in layers depending on their densities.