Which process would be used to separate sugar from a sugar-water solut...
Evaporation is used to separate sugar from a sugar-water solution. By heating the solution, the water evaporates, leaving behind the sugar crystals. This method works because sugar dissolves in water but does not evaporate with it.
Which process would be used to separate sugar from a sugar-water solut...
Understanding the Separation Process
To separate sugar from a sugar-water solution, the most effective method is evaporation. This process takes advantage of the different physical properties of the substances involved.
Why Choose Evaporation?
- Nature of the Mixture: A sugar-water solution consists of sugar dissolved in water. The sugar molecules are evenly distributed in the water, creating a homogeneous mixture.
- Physical Change: Evaporation is a physical change where the liquid (water) turns into vapor when heated. This process allows the solid (sugar) to remain behind.
Steps in the Evaporation Process:
1. Heating: The sugar-water solution is heated in a container. As the temperature rises, the water begins to evaporate.
2. Vaporization: Water molecules gain enough energy to escape into the air, leaving the sugar behind.
3. Concentration of Sugar: As more water evaporates, the solution becomes more concentrated until only sugar remains.
4. Completion: Eventually, all the water evaporates, resulting in solid sugar.
Why Not Other Methods?
- Filtration: This method separates solids from liquids but is ineffective here since sugar is dissolved.
- Sedimentation: This process relies on heavier particles settling at the bottom. Sugar is not heavy enough to settle.
- Decantation: This method separates liquids from solids or different liquid layers but won’t work for dissolved sugar.
Conclusion
Evaporation is the best method to separate sugar from a sugar-water solution due to its effectiveness in utilizing the physical properties of solubility and boiling points.
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