Question

Define the following terms:

a. sedimentation
b. decantation (2 marks)

Answer 1

The settling down of suspended, insoluble, heavy solid particles in a solid-liquid mixture when left undisturbed is called as sedimentation.The solid that settles below is called as sediment and the clear liquid is called supernatant liquid. (1 mark)

The process of pouring out the clear liquid, without disturbing the sediment is called decantation. (1 mark)