Question

A mixture contains water, kerosene and sand. How will you separate this mixture ?

Answer 1

We will separate a mixture of kerosene oil, water and sand by the following process:

1. First, we can separate sand from mixture by passing it through a filter paper or by decantation.
2. After that, we get a mixture of kerosene and water. Leave it undisturbed for some time.  Kerosene, being less dense than water, starts floating on it. By using a separating funnel, we can separate the mixture of kerosene and water.
3. Another process is by distillation. Water has a low boiling point (100°c), which allows it to evaporate easily. But kerosene having a boiling point of 175°C will remain undisturbed. Care should be taken as kerosene is inflammable.