Decantation is the process of separating a solid from a liquid by pouring the liquid into another container. It is a simple and commonly used method of separating mixtures.

Procedure:
1. Set up the mixture: The solid and liquid components are initially mixed together in a container. The solid may be insoluble in the liquid or have a different density, allowing it to settle at the bottom.

2. Allow settling: The mixture is then left undisturbed for some time to allow the solid particles to settle at the bottom of the container. The settling time may vary depending on the size and density of the solid particles.

3. Carefully pour the liquid: Once the solid has settled, the liquid is poured slowly and carefully into another container, leaving the solid behind. The pouring must be done slowly to ensure that the solid does not mix back into the liquid.

4. Collect the liquid: The liquid collected in the second container is now free from the solid particles and can be further processed or used as desired.

5. Dispose of the solid: The solid residue left behind in the original container can be discarded or used for other purposes, depending on its nature.

Advantages of Decantation:
- Decantation is a simple and quick method of separating solid-liquid mixtures.
- It does not require complex equipment or chemicals.
- It can be easily performed in a laboratory or at home using common household items.

Limitations of Decantation:
- Decantation is not suitable for all types of mixtures. It is most effective when the solid particles are larger and settle quickly.
- It may not be effective for mixtures with fine particles or when the solid particles have a similar density to the liquid.
- It may result in some loss of the liquid during the pouring process.

Applications of Decantation:
- Decantation is commonly used in the food industry to separate liquids such as oil and water.
- It is used in winemaking to separate the clear liquid from the sediments or solids.
- It can be used to separate sand from water, settle suspended particles in wastewater treatment, and separate mixtures in various laboratory experiments.