james accidentally spills 2 containers, mixing their contents. he checks and finds that 1 contains salt crystals while the other contained powdered sand. describe a method that he might use to separate the 2 mixtures without losing any of either mixture.

To separate the mixture of salt crystals and powdered sand without losing any of either mixture, James can use the process of filtration. Here's a step-by-step method he could follow:

1. Gather the necessary materials: James will need a filter paper, a funnel, a beaker or a container to collect the separated mixture, and an additional container to hold the mixture before the separation process.

2. Prepare the filtration setup: Place the funnel in the opening of the beaker or container that will be used to collect the separated mixture. Then, fold the filter paper into a cone shape and place it in the funnel, ensuring that it fits properly.

3. Pour the mixture into the filter setup: James should carefully pour the mixed contents into the filter paper in the funnel. The filter paper acts as a barrier, allowing liquid to pass through while retaining the solid particles.

4. Let the filtration take place: As James pours the mixture, the liquid portion, which contains the dissolved salt, will pass through the filter paper and collect in the beaker or container. This liquid, known as the filtrate, is the separated salt solution.

5. Remove the filter paper: Once the liquid has passed through the filter paper, James can carefully remove the filter paper from the funnel. He should then transfer it to a separate container, as it would contain the solid particles of sand.

6. Allow the filtrate to evaporate: James could leave the beaker or container with the collected salt solution undisturbed for some time. Gradually, the water from the solution will evaporate, leaving behind the salt crystals.

By following these steps, James can separate the salt crystals from the powdered sand without losing any of either mixture through the process of filtration and subsequent evaporation.