Which of the following laboratory tools would be most appropriate for separating a mixture of sand and water into its components?

• A. Mortar and pestle
• B. Bunsen burner
• C. Graduated cylinder
• D. Filter paper and funnel

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the physical states of the components in the mixture: sand is a solid, and water is a liquid.
2. Recall that sand is insoluble in water, meaning it does not dissolve and remains as solid particles suspended in the liquid.
3. Understand that to separate an insoluble solid from a liquid, a physical separation method such as filtration is appropriate.
4. Recognize that filter paper and a funnel are used together in filtration, where the liquid passes through the filter paper while the solid particles are trapped.
5. Conclude that among the given options, filter paper and funnel are the most suitable tools for separating sand from water by filtration.