Final answer:
Filtration is a method to separate solids from liquids using filter paper, which is based on particle size. The process and equipment vary based on requirements like filtering speed and the level of separation needed. Membrane filtration can also be effective for removing contaminants, with the efficacy depending on the pore size of the filter.
Step-by-step explanation:
Filtration is a common laboratory technique used to separate solid substances from liquids. In the scenario described, where solid particles need to be separated from a liquid, a filter paper would be used during the process. This method relies on the physical property of particle size; smaller liquid molecules can pass through the filter's pores, while larger solid particles cannot.
There are several types of filtration techniques and the choice of filtration equipment depends on specific requirements such as filtering speed, cleanness, and whether gravity or pressure will be used to facilitate the flow through the filter. For example, in a laboratory setting, a simple paper filter may suffice for a basic separation process, whereas high-tech filter systems may be necessary for more complex or demanding situations.
In the context of preparative chemistry, filtration is also used to recover desired products from reaction mixtures. In addition to filtration using a porous medium, methods like membrane filtration could be used to remove contaminants like viruses from a solution, provided that the membrane's pore size is adequate. For instance, a 0.2-µm pore size filter can effectively remove most bacteria but might not be sufficient for viruses, which are generally smaller.