**Correct Option: A. Filtration** ### Detailed Explanation: **1. Understanding the Mixture:** A heterogeneous mixture consists of two or more components that are not uniformly distributed. In this case, we have a solid mixed with a liquid. The solid particles are distinct and can be separated from the liquid phase. **2. Filtration as a Separation Technique:** Filtration is a physical separation method that is specifically designed to separate solids from liquids. The process involves passing the mixture through a filter medium (like filter paper or a membrane) that allows the liquid to pass through while retaining the solid particles. **Step-by-Step Process of Filtration:** - **Setup:** A filter paper is placed in a funnel, which is positioned over a receiving container (like a beaker). - **Pouring the Mixture:** The heterogeneous mixture of solid and liquid is poured into the funnel. - **Separation:** The liquid (filtrate) passes through the filter paper, while the solid (residue) is trapped on the filter paper. - **Collection:** The liquid is collected in the beaker, and the solid can be removed from the filter paper for further analysis or disposal. **3. Why Other Options Are Incorrect:** - **B. Distillation:** - **Explanation:** Distillation is a technique used to separate components of a mixture based on differences in boiling points. It is effective for separating liquids from liquids (like separating ethanol from water) or for purifying a liquid. However, it is not suitable for separating a solid from a liquid because solids do not vaporize and cannot be separated using boiling point differences. - **C. Chromatography:** - **Explanation:** Chromatography is a technique used to separate components of a mixture based on their movement through a stationary phase under the influence of a mobile phase. It is primarily used for separating and analyzing mixtures of gases or liquids, not for separating solids from liquids in a straightforward manner. While it can separate components in a solution, it is not the most efficient method for solid-liquid separation in a heterogeneous mixture. - **D. Centrifugation:** - **Explanation:** Centrifugation involves spinning a mixture at high speeds to create a force that separates components based on their density. While it can separate solids from liquids, it is more commonly used for suspensions or emulsions where the solid particles are very fine or when dealing with biological samples. It is less straightforward than filtration for simple solid-liquid separations and may not be necessary for larger solid particles. ### Summary of Key Points: - **Filtration** is the most appropriate method for separating solids from liquids in heterogeneous mixtures. - It works by allowing the liquid to pass through a filter while retaining the solid. - **Distillation** is for separating liquids based on boiling points, **chromatography** is for analyzing mixtures, and **centrifugation** is for density-based separation. - Understanding the nature of the mixture is crucial for selecting the right separation technique. ### Revision Summary: - Filtration is ideal for separating solids from liquids in heterogeneous mixtures. - It uses a filter to retain solids while allowing liquids to pass through. - Other methods like distillation, chromatography, and centrifugation are not suitable for this specific separation. - Always consider the properties of the components in a mixture when choosing a separation technique.