Which of these methods could be used to separate an insoluble solid from a soluble solid?

Question

Melting the mixture and then using a filter to separate out the soluble solid
Melting the mixture, mixing it with water, and then using a magnet to separate out the insoluble solid
Mixing the mixture with water and then using chromatography to separate the two dissolved solids
Mixing the mixture with water, filtering out the insoluble solid, and then evaporating the water to isolate the soluble solid

Answer 1

The most appropriate method for separating an insoluble solid from a soluble solid is:

Mixing the mixture with water, filtering out the insoluble solid, and then evaporating the water to isolate the soluble solid.

Here's why the other options are less suitable:

1. Melting the mixture and then using a filter to separate out the soluble solid: This method would not be effective because melting does not separate solids based on solubility; it might also damage the soluble solid.

2. Melting the mixture, mixing it with water, and then using a magnet to separate out the insoluble solid: This assumes the insoluble solid is magnetic, which may not be the case. Additionally, melting the mixture before adding water is not a standard separation method.

3. Mixing the mixture with water and then using chromatography to separate the two dissolved solids: Chromatography is used for separating mixtures of soluble substances, but it is not applicable for separating an insoluble solid from a soluble one.

Thus, the correct and most feasible method is the last option.