Define sedimentation and decantation. Mention also the kind of mixture in which it is used for separation.
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Solution
Sedimentation -
Suspension is a solution in which insoluble fine particles are suspended in a liquid.
Sedimentation is a process in which fine particles present in a liquid are allowed to stand undisturbed, such that solid particles settle down leaving the clear liquid above is called sedimentation.
Decantation -
After the process of sedimentation, the clear supernatant liquid is poured out.
Thus, in this way solid particles are separated from the liquid.
This process is known as decantation.
For example - Sand being insoluble in water, form a suspension. Now, when the solution is allowed to stand for some time, the sand particles settle down through the process of sedimentation. Now, the water can be separated by tilting the beaker slightly and pouring the liquid. This process is known as decantation.
