Question

As an environmental engineer how would you apply the process of separating mixtures to clean up a polluted beach? What would you do first? Second? Third? What equipment would you need? Explain your process. U GET 50 POINTS FOR THIS QUESTION

Answer 1

Mixtures can be separated using various separation methods such filtration,separating funnel,sublimation,simple distillation and paper chromatography. The methods stated above are all physical methods. There are also chemical methods, which are used by rearranging the particles so a certain substance no longer exists (chemical reaction). However here is my explanation on the four MAIN physical methods (the ones that show up on tests) of separation:

1. Distillation.

If two substances have different boiling points and are mixed together, you can boil them and the one with the lower boiling point will evaporate out. Here is a video of an experiment which uses distillation to purify water from a solution of salt water.

2. Chromatography .

If you've ever done the experiments where you draw colored dots on a paper towel and dip it in water, this is that. Chromatography is when a substance is carried away (through the towel in this case) or spread around by the absorption of water. You can also think of a spill on a rug. Here is a video which shows a paper chromatography experiment which was conducted to separate the pigments found in a black overhead marker.

3. Crystallization.

For a supersaturated solution, you can choose to let the solute crystallize out. Example: Rock candy (sugar solution)

4. Filtration/decanting.

Sort them out by particle size using a selective membrane such as filter paper.

Environmental engineers are called upon to assist with the cleanup of oil spills and other environmental hazards. They must be familiar with different cleanup methods and then effectively communicate these strategies with the community, the cleanup crew and the company/person responsible for the spill. Environmental engineers' contributions to environmental cleanup are important in keeping our Earth's water and land healthy for plans and animals.

Answer 2

Distillation

Decantation