Final answer:
The electrostatic method works by applying a charge to particles, which are then attracted to a filter with an opposite charge, collecting and removing them from a mixture.
Step-by-step explanation:
The electrostatic method works by utilizing the property that opposite charges attract each other and like charges repel each other. In practical applications such as electrostatic precipitators, a charge is applied to particles, which are then attracted to a filter with an opposite charge. This effectively collects and removes the particles from the air or mixture. Specifically, the correct answer to the student’s question of how the electrostatic method works is: a) A charge is applied to an object, which attracts the desired particles, collects them, and extracts them from the mixture.