Separation Techniques
Most of the matter around you is not pure; instead, it is arranged in complex mixtures of multiple pure substances. These pure substances can be separated from each other using various separation techniques. Heterogeneous mixtures are typically easier to separate than homogeneous mixtures because the substances are not evenly distributed, and are in distinct layers or regions. Pure substances will have various unique physical properties that will allow them to be separated from other pure substances without changing chemical composition. Density, particle size, magnetism, state, polarity, melting point, boiling point, and solubility are all physical properties that must be taken into consideration when trying to separate the components of a mixture.
There are many different types of separation techniques. Methods of separating mixtures including filtration, decantation, distillation, evaporation, crystallization, and chromatography. In this interactivity, click on each of the folder tabs to learn more about each of these separation techniques.
Download a printable version of the interactivity.
To learn more about the use of filtration in everyday life, view the video Breathe Easy from eMediaVA℠. As you view the video, make note of what these filters are actually filtering. Are these filters important in places other than U.S. Navy ships?
Separation Techniques Review
Now that you have learned about the different separation techniques that chemists use in the laboratory, review your knowledge in this non-graded activity. Read each scenario and select which separation technique is being described. Then, click SUBMIT to check your response. Click the interactivity thumbnail and then click NEXT to get started.