Separating Mixtures: Wooden Toothpicks, Iron Filings, and Sand

Front

What is the first step in separating a mixture of wooden toothpicks, iron filings, and sand?

Back

Use a magnet to remove the iron filings. This works because iron is magnetic.

Front

What property allows iron filings to be separated from the mixture?

Back

Magnetism, as iron is magnetic.

Front

After removing iron filings, what is the next step in separating the mixture?

Back

Use water to separate the sand from the wooden toothpicks. Sand will sink, and wooden toothpicks will float.

Front

What property allows sand to be separated from wooden toothpicks using water?

Back

Density, as sand is denser than water and will sink, while wooden toothpicks are less dense and will float.

Front

Why do wooden toothpicks float on water while sand sinks?

Back

Because wooden toothpicks are less dense than water, causing them to float, while sand is denser and sinks.

Front

What method can be used to separate a non-magnetic solid from a magnetic solid in a mixture?

Back

Use a magnet to attract and remove the magnetic solid, leaving the non-magnetic solid behind.

Front

How can you ensure all iron filings are removed from a mixture before separating other components?

Back

Pass a magnet through the mixture multiple times to collect any remaining iron filings.