Question

Explain the principle of magnetic separation.

Answer 1

Definition: The process of separating the solid-solid mixture by using a magnet is called magnetic separation.

Principle:

1. The mixture containing magnetic and non-magnetic components is separated by this method.
2. Usually it is applicable to solid solid mixture.
3. The magnet is moved over the mixture, close to the components of the mixture.
4. In doing this, the magnetic components get attracted to the magnet and get separated whereas, the non-magnetic component does not get attracted and therefore, remains behind.

Examples include a mixture of Sulphur$\left(\mathrm{S}\right)$ and Iron filings, a mixture of sand and iron filings, and a mixture of iron filings and sawdust.