Question
A student wants to obtain a sample of fresh water from a solution of sodium chloride. Identify a method she could use to do this.
Answer
4.6
(248 Votes)
Brody
Master · Tutor for 5 years
Answer
The student could use the method of distillation.
Explanation
A common method of obtaining fresh water from a sodium chloride (salt water) solution is through simple distillation process. This is one of the ways to separate a mixture based on the different boiling points of the components. Sodium chloride solution is a mixture of water and salt. In simple distillation, the solution is heated up to the boiling point until the water evaporates. The evaporated water will then be condensed and collected. Since salt does not evaporate along with the water, the collected condensation is pure water — thus separating the salt from the water.