Science project

Demonstrating the Separation of Mixtures

Grade Level: 7th to 10th; Type: Chemistry

Objective:

In this experiment, you will separate large-scale substances to understand how mixtures are made and the variance in the physical properties of their ingredients.

Download Project

Add to Collection

Grade

Middle School High School

Subject

Science

Research Questions:

Why does the density of the water change when salt is added?
If paper was added to the experiment, how would you change the experiment to separate the paper from the plastics and metal?
If glass was added, how would you change the experiment?
Is this experiment a good representation of your recycling bin at home?

Materials:

Container
Small pieces of heavy plastic jugs
Small pieces of light plastic bottles
Small pieces of aluminum cans
Magnet
Net
Salt
Water

Experimental Procedure

In the container, combine the pieces of plastic and metal.
Use the magnet to separate and pull out the metal materials. Set them aside.
Fill the container with water.
Gradually add salt to the water until one set of plastic pieces begins to float.
Use the net to retrieve the floating pieces. Set them aside.
Use the net to remove the remaining pieces. Set them aside.

Terms/Concepts: Solubility, Magnetic Properties, Mass

References:

Solubility: http://www.solubilityofthings.com/

Magnetic Properties: http://www.ndt-ed.org/EducationResources/HighSchool/Magnetism/magneticproperties.htm

Author: Danielle Abadam

Disclaimer and Safety Precautions

Education.com provides the Science Fair Project Ideas for informational purposes only. Education.com does not make any guarantee or representation regarding the Science Fair Project Ideas and is not responsible or liable for any loss or damage, directly or indirectly, caused by your use of such information. By accessing the Science Fair Project Ideas, you waive and renounce any claims against Education.com that arise thereof. In addition, your access to Education.com's website and Science Fair Project Ideas is covered by Education.com's Privacy Policy and site Terms of Use, which include limitations on Education.com's liability.

Warning is hereby given that not all Project Ideas are appropriate for all individuals or in all circumstances. Implementation of any Science Project Idea should be undertaken only in appropriate settings and with appropriate parental or other supervision. Reading and following the safety precautions of all materials used in a project is the sole responsibility of each individual. For further information, consult your state's handbook of Science Safety.

Six Degrees of Separation

Science project

Six Degrees of Separation

Science fair project which determines whether it is numerically possible to be connected to every person on the earth within six degrees of separation.

5th grade

Science

Science project

Melting Styrofoam with Nail Polish Remover: the Separation of Polymers

Science project

Melting Styrofoam with Nail Polish Remover: the Separation of Polymers

This experiment will demonstrate the separation of polymers by melting Styrofoam cups with nail polish remover.

Science

Science project

Separating Mixtures

Science project

Separating Mixtures

This science fair project idea explores the different properties of matter.

5th grade

Science

Science project

Demonstrating Refraction

Science project

Demonstrating Refraction

Science fair project that demonstrates the process known as refraction, which allows glasses and contact lenses to help people with poor vision.

Science

Science project

Demonstrating Water Erosion Of Land Masses

Science project

Demonstrating Water Erosion Of Land Masses

This science fair project idea demonstrates the process of land erosion.

Science

Science project

Demonstrating Photosynthesis: Writing in Grass

Science project

Demonstrating Photosynthesis: Writing in Grass

This fun experiment provides a concrete and visually striking illustration of photosynthesis.

Kindergarten

Science

Science project

Doing Forensics with Paper Chromatography!

Science project

Doing Forensics with Paper Chromatography!

This science fair project uses paper chromatography to investigate whether black, brown, orange, and purple are pure colors or mixtures of other colors.

4th grade

Science

Science project