How would you separate a mixture of potassium chloride from copper metal?
Cu metal is not soluble in water. KCl is.
To separate a mixture of potassium chloride from copper metal, we can use the difference in their physical properties. Here's an explanation of how you can do it:
1. Stage 1: Size Reduction and Mixing
- The mixture of potassium chloride and copper metal can be finely powdered or crushed to increase the surface area.
- Once the mixture is crushed, it can be thoroughly mixed to ensure even distribution of the components.
2. Stage 2: Magnetic Separation
- Copper metal is not magnetic, whereas potassium chloride is diamagnetic (slightly repelled by a magnetic field).
- A magnetic field can be applied to the mixture, and if any copper remains attracted to the magnet, it can be separated from the potassium chloride.
- Care should be taken to avoid any contact between the magnet and the potassium chloride, as it can be corrosive.
3. Stage 3: Filtration
- Copper metal is insoluble in water, while potassium chloride is soluble.
- The mixture can be added to water to dissolve the potassium chloride.
- The insoluble copper metal can be separated from the solution by filtration using filter paper and a funnel.
- The filtrate, which contains the dissolved potassium chloride, can be collected in a separate container.
4. Stage 4: Evaporation
- To obtain pure potassium chloride, the water in the filtrate can be evaporated.
- This can be done by heating the solution in a container until all the water evaporates, leaving behind the potassium chloride crystals.
It's important to note that these separation techniques are based on the different properties of the two substances involved. Additionally, appropriate safety measures should be followed when handling chemicals and using magnetic equipment.