Question

Explain the process by which magnetic substances are separate from a mixture.

Answer 1

Magnetic separation:

• This is the method of separating the magnetic components of a mixture from non-magnetic ones by using a magnet.

Magnetic separation process:

• For the magnetic separation process electromagnetic separator is needed.
• A leather or brass belt moves over two rollers, one of which encloses magnets in it.
• The powdered ore is dropped over this moving belt at one end, due to which the non-magnetic part of the ore is not attracted by the magnet and falls to form a separate heap at a distance.
• The magnetic part of the ore clings to the belt for a longer distance and forms another heap near the magnet.
• In this way the metals that are attracted to a magnet can be easily separated from a heap.
• For example iron filings can be separated from an iron and sulphur mixture using a magnet.