Question

During science class, while studying mixtures, you mix together iron filings and sand. Your teacher challenges you to separate the sand from the iron filings. How could you use the physical properties of matter to BEST separate the two solids?
Responses

A Add water to the mixture and dissolve the sand.Add water to the mixture and dissolve the sand.

B Pick out one of the two solids by using color to guide you.Pick out one of the two solids by using color to guide you.

C Pour the mixture through a paper filter to separate the two.Pour the mixture through a paper filter to separate the two.

D Use a magnet to pull out the iron filings as they are attracted to a magnet.

Answer 1

D — Use a magnet. Iron is magnetic so the filings will be attracted to the magnet and separate easily from the non‑magnetic sand. Options A and C are invalid because sand doesn't dissolve in water and a paper filter won't separate two solids; B is impractical and unreliable.