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Separation and purification techniques for mixtures

Atomic structure and the periodic table • Atomic models and isotopes

Key concepts

What you'll likely be quizzed about

  • Filtration separates an insoluble solid from a liquid by passing the mixture through a porous medium.
  • Solid particles become trapped on the filter paper, allowing the liquid to pass through and producing a filtrate.
  • Effectiveness is limited by particle size; fine suspensions may require centrifugation or fine filters.

Flashcards

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What advantage does centrifugation provide?

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Centrifugation rapidly accelerates sedimentation by applying strong centrifugal force, allowing quick separation of fine particles.

Key notes

Important points to keep in mind

Select method based on particle size, solubility, boiling point, and polarity.

Use filtration for insoluble solids; follow with evaporation or crystallisation for dissolved solutes.

Choose simple distillation for large boiling point differences and fractional distillation for small differences.

Avoid heating methods for heat-sensitive substances; consider chromatography or low-temperature techniques.

Chromatography resolves similar compounds by differing affinities to stationary and mobile phases.

Magnetic separation works for magnetic materials; use other methods for non-magnetic components.

Centrifugation speeds up sedimentation but requires balanced rotors and suitable equipment.

Azeotropes prevent complete separation by simple distillation; alternatives may be necessary.

Controlled cooling in crystallisation yields purer crystals than rapid cooling.

Consider required purity, sample size, cost, and equipment availability when selecting a technique.

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