Question

Discuss how to separate a mixture of iron fillings, salt, sand, and wood chips.

Answer 1

To separate a mixture of iron fillings, salt, sand, and wood chips, you can use a combination of different separation techniques. The property of metals that allows us to separate the iron fillings using a magnet is their magnetism.

Step-by-step explanation:

To separate a mixture of iron fillings, salt, sand, and wood chips, you can use a combination of different separation techniques:

1. First, use a magnet to separate the iron fillings from the mixture. Iron is a magnetic material, so it can be easily attracted to a magnet. This process is known as magnetic separation.
2. Next, you can use filtration to separate the water-soluble salt from the sand and wood chips. Dissolve the mixture in water and pass it through a filter. The salt will dissolve in the water, while the sand and wood chips will be retained by the filter.
3. Finally, you can use the process of decantation to separate the sand from the wood chips. Decantation involves pouring off the liquid (in this case, water) while leaving behind the solid particles.

The property of metals that allows us to separate the iron fillings using a magnet is their magnetism. Iron is a ferromagnetic material, meaning it can be magnetized and attracted to a magnetic field.

Answer 2

Wrap a magnet in plastic lunch wrap and move it through the mixture of the three solids. The iron filings will stick to the magnet. The filings can be removed by unwrapping the plastic from the magnet carefully! Mix the remaining salt and sand in water and stir.