Final answer:
The separation of ammonium chloride, sand, and zinc chloride can be achieved by sublimation of ammonium chloride, dissolution of zinc chloride in water, followed by filtration to remove sand, and then crystallization of zinc chloride.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best means to separate ammonium chloride, sand, and zinc chloride involves utilizing their different physical and chemical properties. To separate ammonium chloride from sand and zinc chloride, one can take advantage of its sublimation property. Heating the mixture will cause the ammonium chloride to sublimate (turn directly from solid to gas), which can then be condensed back into a solid form, thereby leaving behind the sand and zinc chloride.
Next, to separate sand from zinc chloride, one can utilize the solubility difference. Sand is not soluble in water, whereas zinc chloride is very soluble. By adding water to the mixture and stirring, the zinc chloride will dissolve into the solution. The sand can then be removed by filtration. After filtration, the water can be evaporated from the zinc chloride solution, which will allow the zinc chloride to crystallize out of the solution.
This separation process showcases different chemical techniques such as sublimation, dissolution, filtration, and crystallization to achieve the separation of a three-component mixture. These are foundational laboratory techniques taught in chemistry.