What role does filtration play in purification processes?

Filtration plays a crucial role in purification processes by separating solid impurities from a liquid or gas.

Filtration is a mechanical or physical operation which is used for the separation of solids from fluids (liquids or gases) by interposing a medium through which only the fluid can pass. The process of filtration is typically used in various industries and laboratories for purifying substances, especially liquids and gases.

In the context of chemistry, filtration is often used to separate a solid substance from a liquid. This can be done in a number of ways, but the most common method is to pass the mixture through a filter paper. The solid particles, being too large to pass through the tiny pores in the filter paper, are left behind while the liquid passes through. This process is known as simple filtration.

In addition to simple filtration, there are other types of filtration methods used in purification processes. For instance, vacuum filtration, which is often used when dealing with a large amount of mixture. The vacuum pulls the liquid through the filter paper, speeding up the process.

Another type of filtration is hot filtration, used when the solution, if cooled, would crystallise out. The apparatus is heated to prevent this.

Filtration is not only used to separate solids from liquids, but also to remove impurities from gases. For example, air filters are used to remove solid particulates, such as dust, pollen, mould, and bacteria from the air.

In summary, filtration is a key process in purification, allowing for the separation of solid impurities from liquids and gases. It is a versatile technique, with different methods applicable to different situations.