Question

Oil and water can be separated by using a separating funnel. What differences in their properties make this possible?

Answer 1

• Oil and water are a mixture of two immiscible liquids.
• Those liquids which do not mix and form separate layers (when put in a container) are called immiscible liquids.
• To separate a mixture of two immiscible liquids - a separating funnel is used.
• A separating funnel can be used to separate two immiscible liquids.
• A separating funnel is a specific sort of funnel that contains a stop-cock (or tap) in its stem that allows or stops the flow of liquid from it. The difference in densities between two immiscible liquids determines the separation by a separating funnel.
• Since oil has less density as compared to water. therefore, when the mixture is kept in a separating funnel.
• Water being heavier forms the lower layer and oil upper layer.