If a solid dissolves in a liquid, it mixes completely with the liquid so that it cannot be seen.

Solids and gases that do not dissolve in a liquid are insoluble.

To separate something, you put different parts of it into different groups.

To filter is to pour a mixture of liquid and solid through a fine mesh to separate the solid particles from the liquid.

A sieve is a device with a mesh of holes to let small pieces through while holding back larger pieces.

Recovering insoluble solids

Science

In this Properties, changes and separating materials unit, pupils learn to decide how mixtures might be separated, including through filtering, sieving and evaporating. In the Materials challenge unit, they will build on this knowledge to apply their understanding of separating materials to a wider range of everyday situations

In the Everyday materials unit, pupils learnt to compare and group together a variety of everyday materials on the basis of their simple physical properties. In this Properties, changes and separating materials, pupils will build on this knowledge to compare an group together everyday materials on the basis of a wider variety of properties

Properties, changes and separating materials

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

A solution is a mixture where one substance is {{}} into another substance, such as a solid into a liquid.

If a solid does not dissolve in a liquid it is said to be...

A {{}} is a piece of equipment used to separate insoluble solids and liquids in our everyday lives. 

Which of these mixtures could be separated using a sieve? 

What is the name of the method that could be used to separate insoluble solids from a liquid (or gas)?

Which of these materials are liquids at room temperature? 

What is the name of the process when a solid turns into a liquid?

When a solid dissolves in a liquid, a {{}} is produced. 

you can see small pieces of the solid within the water. 

you can see small pieces of the solid floating on the water. 

In a solution, when a solid dissolves in a liquid… 

does not dissolve in water or another liquid

Match the type of solid to its behaviour in water.

You have three mixtures of solids in front of you. Based on their appearance, which ones could be solutions? 

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Adult supervision required

Starter Quiz