Question

Water containing sand can be separated by the method of sedimentation, followed by decantation. The principle behind sedimentation and decantation techniques is:

• A. One of the components is soluble in liquid.
• B. One of the components is non-volatile.
• C. One of the components is heavier than the liquid, and it is insoluble.
• D. One of the components is a solid, and it is insoluble in liquid.

Answer 1

The correct option is C One of the components is heavier than the liquid, and it is insoluble.

The principle of sedimentation is that heavy particles settle faster in a medium. So the solid component which is insoluble in the mixture settles down due to gravity. The basic principle of decantation is that heavier (denser) substances sink, while lighter (less dense) substances float. In its simplest form, decantation uses gravity to separate a solid and liquid or two immiscible liquids