Filtration

Filtration is the process of using a filter to mechanically separate a mixture of solids and fluids. Depending on the application, the solid, the fluid, or both may be isolated. Examples of filtration include a coffee filter which separates the coffee grounds from the brewed coffee; the use of consumer water filters to improve the taste or appearance of municipal water; and the use of HEPA filters in air conditioning to remove particles from air.

To separate a mixture of chemical compounds, a solvent is chosen which dissolves one component, while not dissolving the other. By dissolving the mixture in the chosen solvent, one component will go into the solution and pass through the filter, while the other will be retained. This is one of the most important techniques used by chemists to purify compounds.

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