elutriation

Elutriation is a separation technique used to separate particles based on their size and density. This process involves placing particles in a vertical tube where a fluid, typically water, flows upward at a controlled rate.1

Here's how it works:
* Particles settle in the fluid at different speeds depending on their size and density.
* As the fluid flow rate increases, smaller or less dense particles are carried upward and removed.
* Larger or denser particles remain stationary or sink further down the tube.
* By gradually increasing the flow rate, different size fractions of particles can be separated.1

Elutriation is essentially a form of washing or cleaning that leverages fluid dynamics to achieve particle separation.23