To separate a solid substance that has dissolved in water, you can use one of the following methods, depending on whether the substance is soluble or a suspension:
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Filtration: If the solid is insoluble (does not dissolve in water), you can use filtration. Pour the mixture through a filter paper placed in a funnel. The solid will remain on the filter paper while the water (filtrate) passes through.
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Evaporation: If the solid is soluble (like salt or sugar), you can evaporate the water to recover the solid. Heat the solution gently in a heated pan (like a shallow dish) until all the water evaporates, leaving the dissolved solid behind. Make sure to do this in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood if the solid or vapors are hazardous.
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Crystallization: For soluble solids, you can also use crystallization. Dissolve the solid in a minimum amount of hot water, then allow the solution to cool slowly. As it cools, the solid will crystallize out of the solution. These crystals can then be collected by filtration.
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Refrigeration: If the substance forms crystals at lower temperatures, placing the solution in a refrigerator can encourage crystallization.
Choose the method that best suits the nature of the solid you are dealing with. Always follow safety protocols when handling chemicals.