Which of the following best explains why filtration is considered a passive process in laboratory separation techniques?

• A. It depends on the evaporation of the solvent to isolate the solid.
• B. It involves the use of catalysts to speed up the separation process.
• C. It requires the addition of heat to drive the separation of components.
• D. It relies on gravity or pressure differences to separate particles without requiring chemical reactions or energy input from the user.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of a passive process in laboratory techniques: it is a process that does not require external energy input or chemical reactions to occur.
2. Recall that filtration separates solids from liquids by passing the mixture through a filter medium, which traps solid particles while allowing the liquid to pass through.
3. Recognize that filtration relies on natural forces such as gravity or pressure differences to move the liquid through the filter, rather than using heat, catalysts, or evaporation.
4. Compare the options given and identify that the correct explanation must emphasize the use of physical forces without additional energy or chemical changes.
5. Conclude that filtration is considered a passive process because it depends on gravity or pressure differences to separate particles without requiring chemical reactions or energy input from the user.