Question

How would you separate $ZnC{O}_3$ from a mixture of $ZnC{O}_3$ and $N{a}_{2}C{O}_3$?

• A. distillation
• B. filtration
• C. chromatography
• D. none of these

Answer 1

The correct option is B filtration

Since sodium carbonate is water-soluble and zinc carbonate is not. Add the water to the solid mixture and stir well. The $N{a}_{2}C{O}_3$ dissolves in water and the $ZnC{O}_3$ doesn't. Filter the mixture and the undissolved $ZnC{O}_3$ remains behind on the filter paper. The filtrate (liquid that comes through the filter) contains dissolved $N{a}_{2}C{O}_3$. Evaporate this liquid to dryness and solid $N{a}_{2}C{O}_3$ remains behind.