Final answer:
Mixtures of solids can be separated using various methods based on the physical properties such as size, magnetism, volatility, and solubility. Filtration and magnetic separation are common for heterogeneous mixtures, while distillation and crystallization work well for separating components of homogeneous mixtures.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mixtures of solids can be separated based on the observable properties of their parts. One way to separate a mixture is by using the physical method of filtration, which relies on the size of the solid particles. Filtration involves passing the mixture through a filter, which allows the liquid to pass but retains the solid particles. Another method is magnetic separation, where magnetic materials, like iron, can be separated from nonmagnetic materials using a magnet.
Distillation and crystallization are used to separate homogeneous mixtures based on differences in boiling points or solubility. Distillation involves heating the mixture until the more volatile component vaporizes and is condensed back into a liquid, thereby separating it from non-volatile components. For example, when distilling a saltwater solution, the water vaporizes and is collected as pure water, leaving the salt behind. Similarly, crystallization allows for the separation of a dissolved substance by forming crystals that can be filtered out from the rest of the mixture.
Mixtures can also be simply separated by manual sorting, especially when components are easily distinguishable, such as mixing salt with ground pepper. This method does not involve any complex processes; it is based on visual inspection and physical manipulation of the mixture's components.